judiciary
The branch of government responsible for interpreting laws and administering justice
Examples
In a meeting
“An independent judiciary is essential for fair dispute resolution.”
Over coffee
“The judiciary ruled that the law was unconstitutional.”
Why this word
courts
judiciary encompasses the entire judicial branch as an institution, not just individual courtrooms
judges
judiciary refers to the system and institution, not just the people who serve as judges
legal system
judiciary specifically means the judicial branch, while legal system includes legislative and law enforcement components
Usage tip
Use when referring to the court system collectively or the judicial branch of government. More formal than 'courts.'
Etymology
Latin 'judicium' (judgment) from 'judex' (judge) — system of judges
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Related words
enjoin
To legally prohibit or order someone to do or not do something
proscribe
To officially forbid or condemn something
severability
The legal principle that if one part of a contract is invalid, the rest remains enforceable
quorum
The minimum number of members required to be present for valid proceedings
recuse
To remove oneself from a decision due to conflict of interest or bias
culpable
Deserving blame or held responsible for wrongdoing