lawlessness

[law-lis-nis]

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.

Word History and Origins

Origin of lawlessness¹

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

Example Sentences

Ending the fear that our justice system is devolving into secrecy and lawlessness will reduce tension, and the potential for violence.

From Los Angeles Times

Before leaving for the FBI, he spoke openly about protecting Missourians from what he called “woke” ideology and lawlessness from the left.

From Salon

“This is a moment with our country in crisis where we need our political leaders to pick sides and to stand up to this administration and its lawlessness,” Wood said.

From Los Angeles Times

Bondi, riding on top of the red steed of blood, is lawlessness and anger; she is war.

From Salon

The work also gives the volunteers a modicum of civic control in a city where they often see too much lawlessness — from graffiti to open-air drug use.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• chaos 
• confusion 
• disorder 
• terrorism