Definition of "legal" in English

adjective

1. Relating to the law or to lawyers.

   • legal profession

2. Having its basis in the law.

   • legal precedent

3. Being established, permitted, required or prescribed by law.

   • legal motion

4. Following the rules or syntax of a system, such as a game or a programming language.

   • If you have no legal move, but are not in check the game is a draw.

5. (informal) Above the age of consent or the legal drinking age.

6. Permitting the use and/or sale of cannabis; in which cannabis is lawful.

7. (Canada, US) Of paper or document layouts, measuring 8+¹⁄₂ × 14 inches (216 × 356 mm).

8. (Philippines) Of paper or document layouts, measuring 8+¹⁄₂ × 13 inches (216 × 330 mm).

noun

1. (uncountable, informal) The legal department of a company or organization.

   • Legal wants this in writing.

2. (countable) A spy who is attached to, and ostensibly employed by, an embassy, military outpost, etc.

3. (countable, informal, US) One who immigrated lawfully.

4. (uncountable, Canada, US) A paper sheet or document measuring 8+¹⁄₂ × 14 inches (216 × 356 mm).