Meaning & Definition of word "Prosecutor"

Prosecutor

/ˈprɒsɪkjuːtə/

noun:

  • 1. A legal representative who presents the case against an individual in a criminal trial.
    • Example: The prosecutor argued that the evidence clearly pointed to the defendant's guilt.
  • 2. A person, often a government official, who conducts the prosecution of a criminal case.
    • Example: The experienced prosecutor secured a conviction after a lengthy trial.
  • 3. An attorney responsible for proving that a defendant has committed a crime.
    • Example: During the hearings, the prosecutor presented witnesses to establish the timeline of events.
  • 4. A public official who represents the state in legal proceedings.
    • Example: The prosecutor's office is dedicated to ensuring justice for the victims of crime.

Etymology

Middle English: from Latin 'prosecutor', from 'prosequi' meaning 'follow after'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

district attorney:

A public official who acts as the prosecutor for the state in a particular district.

prosecutorial discretion:

The authority of an individual prosecutor to decide whether to bring a case to trial.

prosecutor's office:

The office where prosecutors work and where legal actions are prepared.

Related Words

defendant:

An individual accused in a court of law.

judge:

An official appointed to decide cases in a court of law.

criminal:

A person charged with a crime.

Slang Meanings of prosecutor

Meaning: The 'lawyer for the people'.

Example Sentence: In this case, the prosecutor is really the lawyer for the people, ensuring justice.

Meaning: The 'case builder'.

Example Sentence: He’s known as a case builder, always preparing his arguments meticulously.