magistracies
|mag-is-tra-cies|
/ˈmædʒɪstrəsi/
(magistracy)
authority of a magistrate
Etymology
'magistracy' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'magistratus', where 'magister' meant 'master' and the suffix '-acy' (via Latin '-atia' / Old French '-acie') indicated 'state or condition'.
'magistracy' changed from Medieval Latin/Old French forms (Medieval Latin 'magistratia', Old French 'magistracie') and eventually became the modern English word 'magistracy'.
Initially, it meant 'the office or dignity of a magistrate' in a Roman/medieval administrative sense, but over time it evolved into its current meanings of 'the office, authority, jurisdiction, or collective offices of magistrates'.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
plural of 'magistracy': the offices or positions held by magistrates (judicial or administrative officers).
Several local magistracies were responsible for enforcing minor civil regulations.
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Noun 2
plural of 'magistracy': the jurisdictions or authoritative powers exercised by magistrates.
Different magistracies have overlapping jurisdictions in that region.
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Noun 3
plural of 'magistracy': the collective body or offices of magistrates as an institution.
Historic reforms reshaped the magistracies into a more centralized system.
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Last updated: 2026/01/13 06:21