barrister
UK/'bærɪstə/US/'bæristә/
GREA2
Definitions
n.
A lawyer (chiefly in the UK) qualified to argue cases in the higher courts
（主要指英国的）出庭律师，大律师
Root Breakdown
Root-derivedFrom the legal 'bar' — the wooden barrier (barra) in a courtroom separating the judge and lawyers from the public. A barrister is one 'called to the bar,' i.e. licensed to stand at that barrier and plead. So the bar here is the literal courtroom rail, frozen into a professional title.
Root bar still carries 38 more wordsUsage Guide
British/Commonwealth legal term. In the UK, a barrister argues in court, while a solicitor handles paperwork and client meetings. US English uses 'attorney' or 'lawyer' for both roles.
Example Sentences
- 1.
She trained as a barrister before becoming a judge.
- 2.
The barrister cross-examined the witness for an hour.