magistrate
2 synonyms and 0 antonyms for magistrate, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Noun — A judicial officer with limited authority who hears minor civil or criminal cases.
Synonyms
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
How to use magistrate
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
Etymology
From Latin magistratus, related to magister ("master").
Full origin of magistrate →Frequently asked questions
What does “magistrate” mean?
The word “magistrate” means a judicial officer with limited authority who hears minor civil or criminal cases. In plain terms, a judge who handles lower-level court cases, or historically, a senior government official.
How do you pronounce “magistrate”?
“Magistrate” is pronounced MAJ-ih-strayt (/ˈmæd͡ʒ.ɪˌstɹeɪt/ in IPA).
How do you use “magistrate” in a sentence?
Here is “magistrate” used in a sentence: “The case was heard by a local magistrate rather than going to a full trial.”
What part of speech is “magistrate”?
“Magistrate” is a noun.
Where does the word “magistrate” come from?
The word “magistrate” comes from Latin. From Latin magistratus, related to magister ("master").
Is “magistrate” a common word?
“Magistrate” is an uncommon word in modern English.
How many meanings does “magistrate” have?
“Magistrate” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a judicial officer with limited authority who hears minor civil or criminal cases.
What is the difference between a magistrate and a judge?
A magistrate is a judicial officer with limited authority who typically hears minor civil or criminal cases, while a judge often has broader authority to preside over more serious or complex cases. In many systems, magistrates handle lower-level proceedings that free up judges for more significant matters.
What kinds of cases does a magistrate typically hear?
A magistrate typically hears minor civil or criminal cases, such as small claims, traffic violations, or preliminary hearings. Their authority is generally limited compared to higher courts.
Does magistrate always refer to a judicial role?
Not always. Historically, and in some modern systems, magistrate can also refer to a senior civil official in a state or municipality, rather than strictly a judicial officer. The specific meaning depends on the legal or historical context.