Attorney

Definition

Attorney refers to a person appointed to act on behalf of another in legal or business matters. In many regions, it specifically denotes a lawyer authorized to practice law, represent clients in legal proceedings, and provide legal counsel.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /əˈtɜːrni/
• Respelling: uh-TUR-nee

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /əˈtɜːni/
• Respelling: uh-TUR-nee

The pronunciation of "attorney" is consistent in both American and British English.

Etymology

The word "attorney" originates from the Old French term "atorné," meaning "one appointed" or "deputy," derived from "atorner," meaning "to assign." It entered the English language in the 14th century, initially referring broadly to someone who acts on behalf of another.

Derivatives

• Attorneyship (noun)
• Attorney-at-law (noun)
• Power of attorney (noun)
• Attorn (verb, rare)
• Attorney general (noun)

Synonyms

• Lawyer
• Legal counsel
• Advocate

Antonyms

• None

Usage

The term "attorney" is commonly used in legal and governmental contexts to refer to individuals who are legally authorized to act on behalf of clients in various legal matters. Attorneys may work in private law firms, corporate legal departments, government agencies, or as public defenders. They often represent clients in court, draft legal documents, negotiate settlements, and provide legal advice. The title "attorney-at-law" is often used interchangeably with "lawyer" in the United States, while "solicitor" and "barrister" are more common distinctions in the United Kingdom.

Related Terms

• Lawyer: A general term for a person who practices or studies law.
• Advocate: A person who publicly supports or recommends a particular cause or policy, often in a legal context.
• Legal counsel: A lawyer or group of lawyers providing legal advice and representation.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• A person appointed to act on behalf of another in legal matters: Refers to a representative or agent legally authorized to perform legal actions on behalf of another individual.
  • Example: "She appointed him as her attorney to handle all financial matters."
• A professional practitioner of law; a lawyer: Specifically describes an individual qualified and licensed to represent clients in court, provide legal advice, and perform legal actions.
  • Example: "The attorney argued the case in front of the judge."