Juryman Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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juryman
[ˈdʒʊrɪmən ]
Definition
legal context
A juryman is a member of a jury, which is a group of people sworn to render a verdict in a legal case. Jurymen are tasked with listening to evidence presented during a trial and making a decision regarding the guilt or innocence of the accused. Their role is critical in the judicial system, as they help to ensure that justice is served fairly. Jurymen may also be involved in civil cases where they decide on liability and damages. The term can be used interchangeably with 'juror'.
Synonyms
juror, jury member, panel member.
Examples of usage
- The juryman carefully reviewed all the evidence.
- Each juryman must remain impartial during the trial.
- The judge instructed the juryman on their duties.
- A juryman may ask questions through the judge.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Legal System
- Jurymen (or jurors) are typically selected from the general public, reflecting the community's values in legal decisions.
- The role of a juryman is crucial in ensuring a fair trial, as they assess evidence and determine the facts of a case.
Cultural Significance
- Depictions of juries in film and literature often explore themes of justice and moral dilemmas, showcasing their importance in society.
- The concept of a jury trial has origins in ancient Greece, where citizens participated in legal decisions, promoting democratic ideals.
Psychology
- Research indicates that jurymen can be influenced by group dynamics and biases, affecting their decision-making process.
- The deliberation process within a jury can lead to changes in opinion as jurors discuss and weigh different viewpoints.
Pop Culture
- Films like '12 Angry Men' highlight the intense deliberations of jurymen, illustrating how personal beliefs impact justice.
- Television shows often dramatize jury trials, bringing attention to the juryman's role in shaping the narrative of court cases.
Origin of 'juryman'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'juryman' comes from Middle English, combining 'juror' and 'man', indicating a male member of the jury.
- In historical contexts, 'juryman' referred specifically to a man summoned to serve on a jury, highlighting the gendered language of its time.
The term 'juryman' derives from the word 'jury,' which traces its origins back to the Old French word 'juree' meaning 'to swear' or 'oath.' This, in turn, comes from the Latin word 'jurare' which means 'to take an oath.' Historically, the concept of a jury dates back to ancient societies, including Greece and Rome, where citizens would gather to resolve disputes. In England, by the 12th century, the jury system began to take shape, mainly using local individuals to testify or 'present' their knowledge. The use of the term 'juryman' emerged to describe male members of this group, while 'juror' has become a more gender-neutral term commonly used today. Over time, the role of jurymen has been formalized within the justice system, providing a core component of trials, particularly in common law jurisdictions. Jurymen are now expected to deliberate based on the evidence presented and reach a consensus, ensuring that justice is achieved through the democratic process.