Judges Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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judges
[ˈdʒʌdʒɪz ]
Definitions
in court
A person who has the authority to hear and decide cases in a court of law. Judges are responsible for ensuring that trials are conducted fairly and that the law is upheld.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| judges |
Used to describe individuals who preside over court cases and make decisions based on law. Common in most legal systems.
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| magistrate |
Describes a lower-level judge who handles minor cases, preliminary hearings, and other judicial duties such as issuing warrants.
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| justice |
Often used to refer to a higher court judge, especially in supreme courts. Also denotes the administration of the law or fairness in general.
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| arbiter |
Refers to a person or group with the authority to settle a dispute outside of the court system, often in arbitration or negotiation scenarios.
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Examples of usage
- They appointed a new judge to preside over the trial.
- The judge found the defendant guilty of the crime.
evaluate
To form an opinion or conclusion about someone or something after careful consideration. Judges can be critical in nature, often assessing the performance or quality of a person or object.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| judges |
Used when referring to a formal decision made by an official in a courtroom or competition setting. It often implies a sense of authority and finality.
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| assess |
Commonly used in educational, professional, or analytical settings where the objective is to examine and determine the value, importance, or quality of something.
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| evaluate |
Used in general to describe the process of judging the value, merits, or effectiveness of something by considering various factors and evidence.
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| critique |
Often used in artistic or academic settings where a detailed analysis and review, usually involving both positive and negative aspects, is provided.
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Examples of usage
- She judges the entries for the art competition.
- Don't judge a book by its cover.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Historical Origins
- The word comes from the Latin 'judex,' meaning 'one who declares the law.'
- Judges have existed since ancient societies like the Babylonians who used them to settle disputes and maintain order.
- The first known legal code, the Code of Hammurabi, featured judges who interpreted and enforced the laws.
Legal System
- Judges can be appointed or elected, depending on the country's legal system.
- In some places, there are different types of judges, like magistrates who deal with minor offenses and higher court judges for serious cases.
- Judges ensure trials are fair and that the law is applied correctly, acting as both referees and interpreters of the law.
Pop Culture
- In movies and television shows, judges are often portrayed as strict figures who maintain justice or sometimes as quirky characters who bring humor to serious situations.
- Reality shows sometimes feature judges who give critiques and scores, paralleling their courtroom duties with competition settings.
- Famous judges like Judge Judy have become cultural icons, often shaping public perceptions of the judicial role.
Psychology
- Research shows that judges are influenced by their own biases, which can unknowingly affect their rulings.
- The presence of a judge can impact the behavior of defendants and witnesses, creating a more serious atmosphere that influences testimonies.
- Psychological studies on decision-making highlight how emotions can cloud judgment, emphasizing the importance of objectivity in their role.
Literature
- Judges appear in numerous literary works, often representing justice, moral authority, or the burden of difficult decisions.
- Shakespeare's plays frequently depict judges as characters who grapple with justice and mercy, showcasing human flaws within legal systems.
- The portrayal of judges in classic novels often reflects societal values and norms regarding law and authority.
Origin of 'judges'
The word 'judge' originates from the Old French 'jugier' and Latin 'judicare', meaning 'to pass judgment'. The concept of a judge as a legal official dates back to ancient times, with various civilizations employing individuals to settle disputes and administer justice. Over the centuries, the role of judges has evolved to encompass a wide range of responsibilities in different legal systems around the world.
See also: adjudge, adjudicate, injudicious, judgable, judgeable, judgement, judging, judgment, judgmental, judgmentally, judicial, judiciary, judicious, judiciously, judiciousness, misjudge, misjudgment, prejudge, prejudgment.