Pronunciation: [bɪkˌe͡ɪm lˈɔː] (IPA) 
The phrase "became law" is spelled /bɪˈkeɪm lɔː/. In this phrase, the first syllable "be" is pronounced with a short i sound, and the second syllable "came" is pronounced with a long a sound. The final syllable "law" is pronounced with an open o sound. This phrase is often used to describe the process of a bill passing through government and being signed into law by a relevant authority, thus becoming legally binding.
"Became law" refers to the process by which a proposed legislation or bill is officially enacted and takes effect, thus becoming a legally binding and enforceable rule or regulation. This phrase signifies the completion of the legislative process, involving various stages of scrutiny, debate, and voting, wherein the proposed law gains the necessary approval and endorsement to be implemented.
When a bill is introduced in a legislative body, such as a parliament or congress, it undergoes a series of readings, committee deliberations, and amendments. If the majority of the members vote in favor of passing the bill, it progresses to the next stages, including potential debate, further amendments, and voting in both houses of parliament or congress. Once it successfully navigates through these elaborate processes, the bill receives formal approval from the requisite authorities, such as the head of state or executive, which may be in the form of a signature or royal assent, depending on the country's constitutional framework.
Upon receiving such approval, the bill transforms into a law, often accompanied by a designated commencement date, after which it is applicable and binding on the intended subjects or jurisdiction. "Became law" signifies the point at which a bill has successfully completed its journey through the legislative process and entered into force, carrying legal obligations, rights, and responsibilities for individuals, organizations, or the entire community.
The phrase "became law" does not have a specific etymology, as it is a combination of the words "became" and "law". However, each word has its own origin:
- "Become" comes from the Old English "becuman", which means "to come to be" or "to happen". It is a combination of the prefix "be-" (indicating completion or result) and the verb "cuman" (meaning "to come").
- "Law" originates from the Middle English word "lawe" or "lagu", which can be traced back to the Old English word "lagu". This term is believed to have roots in the Proto-Germanic word "lagam", meaning "something laid down or fixed". It is related to the Old Norse "log" and the Gothic "lagis", both of which refer to "law".
