Bailiwick

/ˈbeɪlɪˌwɪk/

Meaning & Definition

noun
A person's area of authority, influence, or expertise.
As a seasoned lawyer, criminal law is her bailiwick.
A jurisdiction or district within which a bailiff has authority.
The bailiwick of the local court extends to several neighboring towns.
A person's particular field of work or interest.
While she specializes in marketing, his bailiwick lies in finance.
A specific area in which someone operates or has control.
Education policy is not her bailiwick; she prefers to focus on healthcare.

Etymology

From Middle English 'bailiwicke', from 'baili' (bailiff) + 'wick' (a district or dwelling place).

Common Phrases and Expressions

in one's bailiwick
within the area of someone’s authority or expertise
out of one's bailiwick
beyond the area of someone’s authority or expertise

Related Words

bailiff
a legal officer with custody of prisoners and the duty to execute writs
jurisdiction
the official power to make legal decisions and judgments

Slang Meanings

a person's specialty or strong suit
When it comes to coding, that's totally his bailiwick.