English Reference
noun · adjective

judiciary

n. · adj.
US /dʒuˈdɪʃiˌɛɹi/ UK /dʒuːdˈɪʃəɹi/ ju·di·cia·ry UK spelling judiciaries

  1. 01 C1 Advanced Formal Law

    n.all the judges of a country or region when thought of as a single group.

    n.the collective body of judges and justices within a jurisdiction. Usually takes a singular verb.

    Simple

    The independence of the judiciary is a very important part of a fair society.

    In context

    A robust and independent judiciary serves as a critical check on the powers of both the executive and legislative branches.

    Usage

    Usually preceded by the definite article 'the'.

  2. 02 C1 Advanced Formal Law

    n.the system of courts of law in a country.

    n.the judicial branch of government, including the administrative and clerical infrastructure of the courts.

    Simple

    The government is planning to spend more money on the judiciary to speed up trials.

    In context

    Reformers argue that the judiciary requires significant technological investment to handle the increasing volume of digital evidence in modern litigation.

    court systemlegal system
  3. 03 C2 Proficiency FormalTechnical Law

    adj.relating to judges or the court system.

    adj.pertaining to the administration of justice or the function of a judge.

    Simple

    He has many years of judiciary experience in the high court.

    In context

    The committee reviewed the candidate's judiciary record to ensure there were no conflicts of interest before the appointment.

    Usage

    Less common than the synonym 'judicial' in modern usage.

This entry
Level C1 · Advanced
Frequency Frequent
Updated