Lawyer Meaning and Definition
Lawyer
Pronunciation
/ˈleɪwər/
Part of Speech
Noun
Definition
A person who practices law; a legal professional skilled in the application of law and the resolution of disputes.
Examples
- The lawyer represented the client in the court trial.
- The lawyer specialized in family law and divorce proceedings.
Synonyms
- Attorney
- Advocate
- Counsel
Antonyms
- Civilian
- Non-practitioner
Etymology
The word “lawyer” originates from the Old French word “leurier,” meaning ” advisor” or “counselor.”
Usage Notes
The term “lawyer” is often used interchangeably with “attorney,” although some countries make a distinction between the two.
Cultural References
Lawyers have been featured in countless movies, TV shows, and books, often portraying a diverse range of characters, from legal eagles to wisecracking attorneys.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
- “Lawyer-up” meaning to prepare for an impending conflict or challenge.
- “Fire your lawyer” meaning to dismiss or replace one’s legal representation.
Related Words or Phrases
- Law
- Court
- Jurisdiction
Collocations
- Lawyer-client
- Loser-lawyer
- Lawyerly
Frequency of Use
The word “lawyer” is commonly used in legal contexts, particularly in the United States and the United Kingdom, and is often featured in news headlines and advertisements.
Common Misspellings
- Laweir
- Lawyir
- Lawier