Attorney

/əˈtɜːrni/

Meaning & Definition

noun
A person appointed to act for another in legal matters; a lawyer.
She hired an attorney to help her with the divorce proceedings.
A legal agent or representative.
The attorney for the plaintiff presented compelling evidence in court.
An individual who practices law and provides legal advice.
He works as an attorney specializing in criminal defense.
A professional who is authorized to represent others in legal negotiations and court.
The company retained an attorney to negotiate the contract terms.

Etymology

Middle English 'attorny', from Old French 'atorner', meaning 'to appoint'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

power of attorney
A legal document authorizing one person to act on another's behalf.
attorney general
The principal legal officer of the government, responsible for overseeing legal affairs.
attorney-at-law
A lawyer who is licensed to practice in court.

Related Words

litigator
A lawyer who specializes in taking legal action against people and organizations.
defendant
An individual accused in a court of law.
plaintiff
A person who brings a case against another in a court of law.

Slang Meanings

legal eagle
He's a real legal eagle when it comes to courtroom battles.
cat lawyer
I just need my cat lawyer to sort this out.