1. the state or condition of being without law or order; disregard for or violation of the law

Examples

• The city descended into lawlessness after the government collapsed.
• Police worked to restore order and end the lawlessness in the streets.
• The frontier town was known for its lawlessness and violence.
• Citizens demanded action to combat the growing lawlessness in their neighborhood.
• The judge condemned the defendant’s pattern of lawlessness.
• International observers reported widespread lawlessness following the election.