Court Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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court
[kɔːt ]
Definitions
legal system
A court is a place where legal matters are decided by a judge or a panel of judges. It is a tribunal with the authority to adjudicate legal disputes between parties and carry out justice.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
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| court |
Can be used in a figurative sense to mean attempting to gain something, often favor, affection, or support, typically through efforts or flattery.
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| tribunal |
Refers to a type of court that is set up to deal with specific types of disputes or cases, often less formal than general courts. It is commonly used in administrative or specialized legal matters.
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| judiciary |
Refers to the system of courts that interprets and applies the law in the name of the state. It is often used in a more formal or institutional context.
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Examples of usage
- The case will be heard in the Supreme Court next week.
- The court ruled in favor of the plaintiff.
sports
A court is a marked-out area, typically rectangular, where sports such as tennis, basketball, or volleyball are played.
Synonyms
arena, playing field.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| court |
A court is used in sports where players play on a flat, marked area. It is typically used for sports like basketball, tennis, and volleyball.
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| playing field |
A playing field is a general term for an outdoor area where various sports or activities can take place. It is less specific than pitch but can refer to similar environments.
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| arena |
An arena is a large space designed for sports events, concerts, and other large gatherings. It usually has a lot of seating for spectators.
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Examples of usage
- She served an ace on the tennis court.
- The basketball court was newly renovated.
attempt to gain favor
To court someone means to try to gain their favor or affection, especially with a view to marriage.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| court |
Used in a legal context to describe a place where legal cases are heard or to refer to the judicial system in general.
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| woo |
Used in a romantic context to describe the act of trying to gain the love or affection of someone, often through special attention or flattery. It has a slightly old-fashioned and poetic connotation.
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| pursue |
Used to describe the act of following or chasing after something or someone, whether it be in a metaphorical sense (goals, career) or a literal one (people, objects).
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Examples of usage
- He courted her with flowers and chocolates.
- She was being courted by several wealthy suitors.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Legal System
- In many countries, courts are divided into criminal and civil courts, each handling different types of cases.
- Judges, who are trained professionals, are responsible for making fair decisions in courtrooms, often guided by laws and precedents.
- The concept of a jury, where ordinary citizens help decide a case, originated in ancient Greece and has influenced many modern legal systems.
Pop Culture
- In popular media, court settings are often depicted in dramas and thrillers, showcasing high-stakes legal battles and courtroom confrontations.
- Reality shows sometimes feature courtroom activities or decisions, blending entertainment with real legal concepts.
- Historical figures like Atticus Finch from 'To Kill a Mockingbird' have become iconic representations of legal advocacy and justice.
Sports
- A court can refer to a specific area marked for games like basketball, tennis, and badminton, each with its unique rules.
- Sports courts have evolved in design, using materials like hardwood or synthetic surfaces for optimal performance and safety.
- The term 'court' in sports reflects a place of competition, where players strive to 'win over' their opponents.
Social and Cultural Significance
- Royal courts throughout history were centers of culture and politics, influencing the arts, fashion, and philosophy of their time.
- Engagement with court systems can reflect societal values, with justice being a cultural priority across different civilizations.
- In various cultures, courts serve community roles beyond legal functions, often mediating conflicts through dialogue and tradition.
Origin of 'court'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'court' comes from the Latin 'cohortem', which means an enclosed yard, showing its connection to gathering places.
- It has evolved over centuries to refer to royal courts where kings and queens held gatherings and made important decisions.
- In Old French, 'cort' referred to a royal court, emphasizing the term's noble origins.
The word 'court' has its origins in Old French 'court' meaning 'royal residence' or 'enclosed yard'. It evolved to refer to the place where a king or queen held formal receptions, and later to the legal and sporting contexts we know today.