noun
Common
prosecutor
PRAH-suh-kyoo-tuhr
Prosecutor (noun) means a lawyer who represents the state in bringing criminal charges against someone. Example: “The prosecutor called three witnesses to the stand on the first day.”
noun
1
A lawyer who represents the state in bringing criminal charges against someone.
"The prosecutor called three witnesses to the stand on the first day."
"A young prosecutor spent weeks preparing the case before the trial began."
"The prosecutor argued that the evidence proved intent."
How to use prosecutor
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishThe lawyer who argues that a defendant is guilty of a crime.
Easily confused with
Common pairings
district prosecutor
chief prosecutor
lead prosecutor
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Word forms
- Plural
- prosecutors
Fill the gap
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The _____ called three witnesses to the stand on the first day.
Etymology
From Medieval Latin prosecutor, from prosequor ("to pursue"), the same Latin root behind "prosecute."
Synonyms
View more →
prosecuting attorney
district attorney
public prosecutor
state's attorney
crown prosecutor
Related words
Rhymes for prosecutor
See all rhymes for prosecutor →Frequently asked questions
What does “prosecutor” mean?
The word “prosecutor” means a lawyer who represents the state in bringing criminal charges against someone. In plain terms, the lawyer who argues that a defendant is guilty of a crime.
How do you pronounce “prosecutor”?
“Prosecutor” is pronounced PRAH-suh-kyoo-tuhr (/ˈpɹɑ.səˌkjuːˌtəɹ/ in IPA).
How do you use “prosecutor” in a sentence?
Here is “prosecutor” used in a sentence: “The prosecutor argued that the evidence proved intent.”
What part of speech is “prosecutor”?
“Prosecutor” is a noun.
Where does the word “prosecutor” come from?
The word “prosecutor” comes from Medieval Latin. From Medieval Latin prosecutor, from prosequor ("to pursue"), the same Latin root behind "prosecute.".
Is “prosecutor” a common word?
“Prosecutor” is a fairly common word in modern English.
What is the difference between a prosecutor and a defense attorney?
A prosecutor represents the state and brings criminal charges against a defendant, aiming to prove guilt. A defense attorney represents the accused person and works to protect their rights and challenge the prosecution's case.
What is the difference between a prosecutor and a district attorney?
A district attorney is a specific kind of prosecutor, usually the official who leads criminal prosecutions in a particular area of the United States. 'Prosecutor' is the general term for any lawyer who brings criminal charges on behalf of the state.
What is the difference between a prosecutor and a plaintiff?
A prosecutor brings criminal charges on behalf of the state in a criminal case. A plaintiff is the party who starts a civil case, such as a lawsuit over money or damages, so the roles belong to different types of legal proceedings.
What is the difference between a prosecutor and a lawyer?
A prosecutor is a type of lawyer with a specific role: representing the state to bring criminal charges. 'Lawyer' is the general term for anyone qualified to practise law, whether prosecuting, defending, or handling non-criminal matters.
