statute

UK: ˈstætʃ.uːt | US: ˈstætʃ.uːt

Definition
  1. n. a written law formally passed by a legislative body

  2. n. a permanent rule established by an organization or institution

Structure
stat <stand>ute <noun suffix>
Etymology

statute = stat<stand> + ute<noun suffix>

  • stat<stand>: From Latin stare (to stand), reflecting the fixed or established nature of a law.
  • ute: A noun-forming suffix derived from Latin -utus, indicating a result or state.

Etymology Origin:
The word statute traces back to Latin statutum (something set up or decreed), from statuere (to set up). The root stat- conveys permanence, as laws "stand" as binding rules. Over time, it evolved through Old French statut into Middle English, retaining its core idea of an enacted law.

Examples
  1. The new statute prohibits smoking in public parks.

  2. The university’s statutes require annual reviews of faculty performance.

  3. Parliament passed a statute to regulate online privacy.

  4. Violating this statute may result in heavy fines.

  5. The statute of limitations expired, barring further legal action.