barrister

[ bar-uh-ster ]

noun

, Law.

1. (in England) a lawyer who is a member of one of the Inns of Court and who has the privilege of pleading in the higher courts. Compare solicitor ( def 4 ).
2. Informal. any lawyer.

barrister

/ ˈbærɪstə /

noun

1. Also calledbarrister-at-law (in England) a lawyer who has been called to the bar and is qualified to plead in the higher courts Compare solicitor See also advocate counsel
2. (in Canada) a lawyer who pleads in court
3. a less common word for lawyer

Other Words From

• bar·ris·te·ri·al [bar-, uh, -, steer, -ee-, uh, l], adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of barrister¹

1535–45; derivative of bar ¹, perhaps after obsolete legister lawyer or minister

Word History and Origins

Origin of barrister¹

C16: from bar ¹

Example Sentences

Smyth, a barrister and senior member of a Christian charity, was accused of attacking dozens of boys, including those he met in the UK in the 1970s and 1980s.

From BBC

“Turkey’s attacks on energy infrastructure have had a devastating impact on civilians,” said Aarif Abraham, a barrister at Doughty Street Chambers, adding: “This could constitute a severe violation of international law.”

From BBC

One of the barristers representing sub-postmasters pointed to the problems caused by this “revolving door of ministers”, as he listed the eight business secretaries in the last five years alone.

From BBC

The Duke of Sussex is "one of two claimants" continuing claims against the publisher of The Sun over allegations of unlawful information gathering, his barrister told the High Court.

From BBC

"They all look like offensive weapons under the Act," said Anthony Orchard KC, a criminal barrister who’s prosecuted many stabbings and knife offences.

From BBC