legislative intent

noun

: the ends sought to be achieved by a legislature in an enactment

Note: Courts often look to legislative intent for guidance in interpreting and applying a law. The legislative history, the language of the law, and the wrong to be corrected may provide indications of the legislative intent.

Dictionary Entries Near legislative intent

Cite this Entry

“Legislative intent.” Merriam-Webster.com Legal Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/legal/legislative%20intent. Accessed 28 Nov. 2024.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!