Judge

Definition

Judge is a noun and a verb. As a noun, it refers to an individual empowered to make decisions in a court of law or someone who assesses and evaluates things. As a verb, it means to form an opinion or conclusion about something or to assess its value or quality.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /dʒʌdʒ/
• Respelling: juhj

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /dʒʌdʒ/
• Respelling: juhj

Etymology

The word "judge" originates from the Old French "juge," derived from the Latin "judex," meaning "one who declares the law," from "jus" (law) and "dicere" (to say). It entered Middle English with its judicial and evaluative meanings intact.

Derivatives

• Judgment (noun)
• Judicial (adjective)
• Judiciary (noun)
• Misjudge (verb)
• Judgmental (adjective)

Synonyms

• Arbiter
• Evaluator
• Adjudicator

Antonyms

• None

Usage

The term "judge" is widely used in legal, evaluative, and informal contexts. For example, "The judge delivered the verdict," or "It's not fair to judge someone without knowing their story."

Related Terms

• Justice: The concept of fairness and moral rightness.
• Verdict: The decision reached by a judge or jury.
• Arbitration: The process of settling disputes by an impartial party.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• An official appointed to decide cases in a court of law: Refers to an individual with judicial authority.
  • Example: "The judge ruled in favor of the defendant."
• A person who assesses the quality of something: Refers to someone who evaluates competitions, events, or items.
  • Example: "She served as a judge in the cooking contest."

Verb

• To form an opinion or conclusion about something: Refers to making an evaluation or judgment.
  • Example: "Don't judge a book by its cover."
• To assess or evaluate the quality or value of something: Indicates careful analysis or estimation.
  • Example: "The wine was judged based on its flavor and aroma."