declaratory

British  

/ dɪˈklærətərɪ, -trɪ /

adjective

1. another word for declarative

2. law

   1. (of a statute) stating the existing law on a particular subject; explanatory

   2. (of a decree or judgment) stating the rights of the parties without specifying the action to be taken

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Other Word Forms

• declaratorily adverb

Explanation

Anything declaratory makes its meaning known clearly and officially, like your sister's declaratory announcement to your friends that they'd better not go in her room and touch her stuff. It's most common to find this adjective in a legal context, in phrases like "declaratory ruling" or "declaratory judgement"; these phrases are used to describe a conclusive and legally binding ruling. A declaratory statement, as opposed to a question or exclamation, directly asserts that something is true. Whenever you come across declaratory, the important thing to know is it's describing something that is crystal clear and definitive. Declaratory comes from the Latin declarare, "make clear, reveal, or announce."

Example Sentences

Last week, Kalshi pre-emptively sued Mayes and several Arizona Department Gaming officials seeking a permanent injunction and declaratory relief.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 17, 2026

“We’re seeking a declaratory judgment that this kind of coercion and the threats of prosecution against Joshua violate the First Amendment,” Sher Tremonte lead counsel Noam Biale told me.

From Slate • Dec. 8, 2025

"Mr Massa is not entitled to claim declaratory relief for reputational or publicity reasons," he added.

From BBC • Nov. 20, 2025

The suit seeks declaratory and injunctive relief and challenges the legality of the decision.

From Los Angeles Times • Jul. 17, 2025

Woodhull asked Congress to issue a declaratory act to clarify the right of all women to vote under the authority of the Fourteenth Amendment.

From "Votes for Women!" by Winifred Conkling