[law.ful] adj (14c) 1 a: being in harmony with the law "a ~ judgment" b: constituted, authorized, or established by law: rightful "~ institutions"
2: law-abiding "~ citizens" -- law.ful.ly adv -- law.ful.ness n syn lawful, legal, legitimate, licit mean being in accordance with law. lawful may apply to conformity with law of any sort (as natural, divine, common, or canon) "the lawful sovereign". legal applies to what is sanctioned by law or in conformity with the law, esp. as it is written or administered by the courts "legal residents of the state". legitimate may apply to a legal right or status but also, in extended use, to a right or status supported by tradition, custom, or accepted standards "a perfectly legitimate question about finances". licit applies to a strict conformity to the provisions of the law and applies esp. to what is regulated by law "the licit use of the drug by hospitals".