lawlessness

American  

[law-lis-nis] / ˈlɔ lɪs nɪs /

noun

1. the quality or condition of being without regard for the law; behavior that is contrary to or shows indifference to the law.

   Unfortunately, a lot of confusion, lawlessness, stupidity, and even death surrounds alcohol use in college settings.

2. the state or condition of being without law or law enforcement to provide control or restraint.

   For several months, the emerging nation looked as if it would slip into lawlessness and civil war.

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Etymology

Origin of lawlessness

First recorded in 1585–95; lawless ( def. ) + -ness ( def. )

Example Sentences

JOHANNESBURG—The corporate exodus from what was supposed to be Africa’s breakout economy is accelerating, propelled by a toxic cocktail of corruption, lawlessness and poor infrastructure.

From The Wall Street Journal • Feb. 6, 2026

And yet, in a version of Britain the rest of Europe has abandoned to death and lawlessness, Kelson survives because of his dedication to artistic and scientific curiosity.

From Salon • Jan. 23, 2026

“His lawlessness inspired lawlessness. His rejection of norms called norms into question,” she notes.

From Los Angeles Times • Dec. 3, 2025

But that’s precisely why the lawlessness should be the basis of the fight.

From Slate • Oct. 1, 2025

And God ordered his left hand, the angel Gabriel, to go down to Earth and stop the lawlessness.

From "Where Things Come Back" by John Corey Whaley

Related Words

• chaos
• confusion
• disorder
• terrorism