legist

[ lee-jist ]

noun

1. an expert in law, especially ancient law.

legist

/ ˈliːdʒɪst /

noun

1. a person versed in the law

Word History and Origins

Origin of legist¹

First recorded in 1425–75; late Middle English word from Medieval Latin word lēgista. See legal, -ist

Word History and Origins

Origin of legist¹

C15: from Medieval Latin lēgista, from lēx law

Example Sentences

Prior to his elevation in 1276 Bernard had been auditor of the papal camera, which shows him to have been an accomplished legist, and he was also a patron of art and literature, but he was ever in trouble with his people.

From Project Gutenberg

I have likewise, my Lord, shown, to the best of my very humble abilities, as a legist, that any punishment inflicted on this individual, violates the only principle on which all punishments can be justified--the prevention of the offence--if it be one.

From Project Gutenberg

Legist, lē′jist, n. one skilled in the laws.

From Project Gutenberg

A learned legist, he had begun his career as judge of the superior council of Alsace, and the chancellor Maupeou, in quest of magistrates who could be bought, had raised him to his new functions.

From Project Gutenberg

He had all the qualities of a clever legist and an excellent commentator, and none of those necessary to a legislator or statesman.

From Project Gutenberg

Related Words

• advocate
• counselor