# fiduciary

/fəˈduʃiˌɛɹi/ (US) · /fɪdjˈuːʃəɹi/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/fiduciary
Updated: 2026-05-09

## Definition

a person or organization that has the legal duty to manage money or property for someone else. You must trust this person to act in your best interest rather than their own.

For teachers: an individual or entity legally obligated to act in the best interest of another party, typically in financial or legal matters. Characterised by a high standard of care and the avoidance of conflicts of interest.

## Examples

- The bank acted as a fiduciary for the estate.
- As a fiduciary, the investment advisor is legally required to recommend products that benefit the client rather than the firm.
- The court ruled that the board members had breached their fiduciary duty by approving a merger that prioritised short-term executive bonuses over long-term shareholder value.

## Usage notes

- Often appears in the phrase 'fiduciary duty' or 'acting as a fiduciary'.

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