judiciary

Adjective[C/U] Both

pl: judiciaries

This term carries a heavy weight of institutional authority and legal formality. It describes the collective machinery of the law rather than the individual act of judging. While a judge is a person, the judiciary is the entire structural apparatus including the courts, the legal framework, and the presiding officers. In political discourse, the word often appears in discussions about the separation of powers. It is used to emphasize the boundary between those who write laws (legislative) and those who execute them (executive), positioning the judiciary as the neutral arbiter that ensures legality and fairness.

Uncountable when referring to the abstract legal system of a nation. Countable when referring to the specific group of judges who make up a particular court or jurisdiction.

Meanings

Noun

The system of courts that interprets and applies the law in a country.

"The judiciary must remain independent from political influence."

Adjective

Relating to the administration of justice or the court system.

"The judiciary branch is responsible for reviewing legislation."

Last Updated: May 27, 2026•Report an Error