NYT Dictionary

LEGALLY

/ˈliːɡəli/
AdverbLE-gal-lyle-gal-ly · 3 syllablesGrade 6

Accepted in official NYT Spelling Bee puzzle years: 2019, 2021, 2023, 2024, 2025

Meaning

As permitted by law; not contrary to law.

Etymology

Origin: Unknown

From legal + -ly. Piecewise doublet of leally and loyally.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

lawfullylegallylegitimatelylicitlyillegallycriminallyforbiddenlyillegitimatelyillicitlyunlawfully

Antonyms

unlawfully

NYT Puzzle Appearances

Accepted in 6 recorded puzzles:

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