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Repealed Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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repealed

[rɪˈpiːld ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

law context

The term 'repealed' refers to the formal revocation or annulment of a law, statute, or regulation. It implies that a legislative act is no longer in effect and is not enforceable. Repeals can happen through a subsequent legislative act, court decision, or sometimes through public referenda. When a law is repealed, it is as if it never existed, removing its legal effects and obligations from the legal system.

Synonyms

abolished, annulled, rescinded, voided.

Examples of usage

  • The outdated law was repealed last year.
  • After much debate, the committee voted to have the policy repealed.
  • The government decided to repeal the controversial tax increase.
  • The senator introduced a bill to repeal the existing regulations.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Historical Events

  • The 21st Amendment, which repealed Prohibition in the United States in 1933, is one of the most significant repeals in American history.
  • The repeal of the Corn Laws in 1846 in Britain marked a major change in agricultural policy and trade, impacting the economy significantly.

Legal Context

  • Repealing a law does not necessarily mean the actions or behaviors it regulated will cease immediately; new laws or regulations may be introduced.
  • In many legal systems, repealing a law can take place through a legislative process, requiring a vote and sometimes a court's involvement.

Pop Culture

  • The repeal of 'Don't Ask, Don't Tell' in 2010 allowed openly gay individuals to serve in the U.S. military, significantly impacting military policy and LGBTQ+ rights.
  • Various films and documentaries discuss the implications and cultural shifts resulting from significant repeals like Prohibition, exploring societal changes.

Political Science

  • Repeal is often a contentious political issue, reflecting shifts in public opinion and moral views, particularly around social policies.
  • Political movements frequently support repealing laws perceived as unjust, showcasing how laws can evolve with societal values.

Origin of 'repealed'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'repealare', meaning 'to call back', combining 're-' (again) and 'pallere' (to be pale or to weaken).
  • It entered the English language in the late 14th century, evolving to mean the act of revoking a statute or law.

The word 'repealed' originates from the Latin word 'repelere', which means 'to drive back' or 'to return'. It evolved through Middle English as 'repealen', which retained the sense of revocation. The usage of 'repeal' as it is understood today became more defined in the context of law-making and governance, particularly as legislative bodies began to formalize their processes of creating and annulling laws. It gained prominence in legal language in the 16th century, coinciding with the rise of parliamentary procedures in Europe. As legal systems became more sophisticated, the concept of repeal became essential for ensuring that outdated or unjust laws could be removed from the legal framework, thus allowing for more adaptable and fair governance.

Word Frequency Rank

At #5,467 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.