Code (kōd), n. [F., fr. L.
codex, caudex, the stock or stem of a tree, a board
or tablet of wood smeared over with wax, on which the ancients
originally wrote; hence, a book, a writing.] 1.
A body of law, sanctioned by legislation, in which the rules
of law to be specifically applied by the courts are set forth in
systematic form; a compilation of laws by public authority; a
digest.
☞ The collection of laws made by the order of Justinian
is sometimes called, by way of eminence. "The Code"
Wharton.
2. Any system of rules or regulations
relating to one subject; as, the medical code, a system of
rules for the regulation of the professional conduct of
physicians; the naval code, a system of rules for making
communications at sea means of signals.
Code civil or Code
Napoleon, a code enacted in France in 1803 and
1804, embodying the law of rights of persons and of property
generally. Abbot.