lawyer

law-yer · noun

imported

Definitions

noun

  1. 1.

    A person who practices or studies law; a legal professional who advises and represents clients.

  2. 2.

    Someone skilled in argument or legal matters (sometimes derogatory).

Forms

plural: lawyers

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    lawyer up — Hire a lawyer, especially in anticipation of legal trouble.
  • •
    ambulance chaser — A derogatory term for a lawyer seeking clients.
  • •
    shyster — A dishonest or unethical lawyer.
  • •
    legal eagle — A skilled or clever lawyer.

Related words

See also: attorney, barrister, law, legal, solicitor
Synonyms: advocate, attorney, barrister, counsel, solicitor

Etymology

From Middle English lawier, from law + -ier (agent suffix). The word combines the noun "law" with a suffix indicating a person associated with something, similar to "sawyer" (one who saws).