declaratory

adjective

de·​clar·​a·​to·​ry di-ˈkler-ə-ˌtȯr-ē How to pronounce declaratory (audio)
1
: serving to declare, set forth, or explain
2
a
: declaring what is the existing law
declaratory statute
b
: declaring a legal right or interpretation
a declaratory judgment

Examples of declaratory in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
According to the suit, Jean's family wants the court to enter a declaratory judgement against the city. — Matthew Ablon, CBS News, 6 Apr. 2026 Resilience is seeking a declaratory judgment that Ramco cannot evict Resilience. — Lisa Schencker, Chicago Tribune, 14 Apr. 2026 In essence, the three LLCs would have to file a new lawsuit requesting declaratory relief that Freidman's interest somehow disappeared with his death. — Jay Adkisson, Forbes.com, 7 July 2026 According to the complaint, the Gauthiers are asking for certiorari review, a court review of the board's decision, and declaratory judgment, an interpretation of state law and town code that would declare the town’s actions void. — Claudia Levens, jsonline.com, 9 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for declaratory

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of declaratory was in the 15th century

Rhymes for declaratory

See All Rhymes for declaratory

Browse Nearby Words

declarator
declaratory
declare
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Declaratory.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/declaratory. Accessed 9 Jul. 2026.

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Legal Definition

declaratory

adjective
de·​clar·​a·​to·​ry di-ˈklar-ə-ˌtōr-ē How to pronounce declaratory (audio)
: serving to declare, set forth, or explain: as
a
: declaring what is the existing law
b
: declaring a legal right or interpretation
declaratory relief
see also declaratory judgment at judgment sense 1a
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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