Definition

1. Noun:
   • The system of courts that interprets and applies the law: The "judiciary" refers to the collective institution of judges and courts that is responsible for administering justice in a legal system.
   • The judges collectively: The "judiciary" can also refer to the body of judges within a country or jurisdiction.

Examples of Usage

• Noun:
  • An independent judiciary is essential for a functioning democracy. (Here, "judiciary" refers to the entire system of courts and judges as an institution.)
  • The judiciary will review the constitutionality of the new law. (In this example, "judiciary" means the judges who have the authority to make this review.)
  • The reform aims to increase diversity within the judiciary. (This use of "judiciary" refers to the collective body of judges.)

Advanced Usage

• "The role of the judiciary": This phrase discusses the function and powers of the court system within a government's structure.

  • The lecture focused on the role of the judiciary in checking executive power.

• "Judicial independence": While a related concept, it specifically describes the principle that the judiciary should be free from interference from other branches of government. It is a key characteristic of a strong "judiciary".

Variants and Related Words

• Judicial (adj): Relating to courts, judges, or the administration of justice.

  • He sought a judicial review of the decision.

• Judge (n): A public official appointed to decide cases in a court of law. Judges are the individual members of the "judiciary".

  • The judge presided over the trial.

Synonyms

• The courts: The system of courts of law.
• The bench: A term often used to refer to judges collectively.
• The judicature: A formal synonym for the judiciary or the administration of justice.

Related Phrases

• "Separation of powers": A doctrine where the state is divided into branches (typically executive, legislature, and judiciary), each with separate and independent powers.

  • The U.S. Constitution establishes a separation of powers among the executive, legislative, and judiciary branches.

• "Judicial branch": One of the three branches of government, specifically the "judiciary".

  • The judicial branch is headed by the Supreme Court.

Noun

1. the system of law courts that administer justice and constitute the judicial branch of government
2. persons who administer justice