Attorney Meaning and Definition
Attorney
Pronunciation
/əˈtɔːnəi/
Part of Speech
Noun
Definition
A person who is qualified to practice law, especially one who has the authority to represent a client in a court of law.
Examples
- The attorney argued the case before the Supreme Court.
- A defendant hires an attorney to represent them in a lawsuit.
Synonyms
- Lawyer
- Solicitor
Antonyms
- Jurist
- Court
Additional Information
An attorney is a licensed professional who has completed a law degree and has passed a state bar exam. They are responsible for defending their client’s legal rights and interests in court. In the United States, attorneys are typically referred to as lawyers, and are authorized to practice law in a specific jurisdiction.
Attorneys play a crucial role in the legal system, ensuring that the rights of individuals are protected and that the laws of the land are upheld. They also provide valuable legal advice to individuals and businesses, helping them navigate complex legal issues.
Etymology
The word “attorney” comes from the Old French word “attornier,” meaning “to assign or appoint.” This word is derived from the Latin words “ad” and “tornare,” meaning “to turn to” or “to assign.”
Usage Notes
In British English, lawyers are often referred to as solicitors or barristers, while in American English, they are typically referred to as attorneys or lawyers.
Cultural References
The word “attorney” has appeared in numerous films and TV shows, including “Law & Order,” “The Practice,” and “My Cousin Vinny.”
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
“To take someone to court” means to file a lawsuit against them, while “to be in the courtroom” means to be present in a court of law.
Related Words or Phrases
Lawyer, solicitor, barrister, judge, court, lawyer, legal professional.
Collocations
Attorney-at-law, attorney general, attorney’s fees, legal representation, court appearance, litigation.
Frequency of Use
The word “attorney” is commonly used in legal contexts and is a crucial term in the legal profession.
Common Misspellings
Attornet, Atorneys, Attonery, Attourney.