Definition

1. Noun:
   • A parliamentary or court officer responsible for maintaining order and enforcing commands: A "serjeant-at-arms" is an official, typically serving in a legislative body (like Parliament or Congress) or a court of law, whose duties include ensuring decorum, security, and carrying out the instructions of the presiding officer or the body itself.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The Speaker ordered the serjeant-at-arms to remove the disruptive member from the chamber.
  • In the medieval court, the serjeant-at-arms was responsible for the custody of prisoners.

Advanced Usage

• Historical and Ceremonial Role: In many modern parliaments, the role of the serjeant-at-arms combines practical security duties with significant ceremonial functions, such as carrying the mace, a symbol of authority.
  • The serjeant-at-arms preceded the Speaker into the chamber, bearing the ceremonial mace.

Variants and Related Words

• Sergeant-at-arms: This is a common alternative spelling for "serjeant-at-arms." The two forms are used interchangeably, though "serjeant" is the older spelling often retained in formal and traditional contexts (e.g., the UK Parliament).
• Sergeant: A distinct term for a rank in the police or military. It is related etymologically but refers to a different office.

Synonyms

• Bailiff: An officer of the court who keeps order and executes processes.
• Marshal: An officer who carries out ceremonial duties and maintains order.
• Usher: An officer who shows people to their seats and keeps order in a court or legislative body.

Related Phrases

• To be in the custody of the serjeant-at-arms: To be under the official detention or control of this officer, often as a form of parliamentary discipline.
  • The witness was held in the custody of the serjeant-at-arms for contempt of Parliament.

Noun

1. an officer (as of a legislature or court) who maintains order and executes commands