League

A league is an affiliation of individuals, teams, or organizations formed to pursue common goals or coordinate activities under agreed rules. The term is used for competitive associations, such as sports leagues, and for formal political or military alliances that bind member entities to mutual objectives or standards.

Sports leagues organize seasons with schedules, standings, and championships, and set rules on competition, eligibility, and conduct. Membership can be open or restricted. Leagues may promote and relegate teams between divisions and often run cup competitions alongside the league. Examples include the English Premier League and the National Basketball Association.

Political and military leagues coordinate defense, diplomacy, or economic policy among states or groups. Historically, leagues appeared as religious orders or alliances; notable examples include the Holy League and the League of Nations. Modern instances include the Arab League and other intergovernmental bodies that promote cooperation and collective action.

Distance unit: In historical measurement, a league is an informal unit of distance varying by region, commonly around three miles (about 4.8 kilometers). The exact length depended on local standards and usage, and the term is now chiefly of historical interest outside specialized contexts.

Other uses include cultural references such as League of Legends, a popular video game, and the everyday phrase “league table,” which denotes a ranking of teams or organizations. The term remains a general label for any association bound by a common purpose.