English Reference
noun

chambers

n.
US /ˈtʃeɪmbɝz/ UK /tʃˈeɪmbəz/ cham·bers

  1. 01 B2 Upper Intermediate Formal Law

    the private office of a judge where they hear cases that do not need to be in a public courtroom.

    a judge's private office used for conducting business or hearing cases not requiring a public court session. Often used in the phrase 'in chambers'.

    Simple

    The judge met with both lawyers in chambers to discuss the private evidence.

    In context

    The motion was heard in chambers to protect the identity of the minor involved in the proceedings.

    Usage

    Typically used as a plural noun; frequently appears in the prepositional phrase 'in chambers'.

  2. 02 C1 Advanced British EnglishFormal Law

    the office used by a group of lawyers, especially in the UK.

    the professional offices occupied by one or more barristers. Historically associated with the Inns of Court in London.

    Simple

    He joined a prestigious set of chambers in London after finishing his law degree.

    In context

    The senior clerk managed the daily operations of the chambers, ensuring that each barrister's schedule was efficiently coordinated.

    Usage

    Often referred to as a 'set of chambers'.

  3. 03 C1 Advanced LiteraryArchaic

    a set of rooms in a large building used for living or working.

    a suite of rooms, typically within a larger building, used for residential or administrative purposes.

    Simple

    The old professor lived in a dusty set of chambers at the top of the college tower.

    In context

    The protagonist retired to his chambers, seeking solace from the chaotic festivities occurring in the ballroom below.

  4. 04 B2 Upper Intermediate

    more than one room or enclosed space, like the parts of a heart or a gun.

    the plural form of chamber, referring to multiple enclosed spaces or compartments.

    Simple

    The human heart has four chambers that pump blood through the body.

    In context

    The technician carefully inspected the various chambers of the engine to ensure no debris had accumulated during the test run.

This entry
Level C1 · Advanced
Frequency Common
Updated