chancery etymology

Etymology and Meaning of Chancery

The word "chancery" has its roots in the late Latin term cancellaria, meaning "office of the chancellor." A chancellor was originally a scribe or secretary responsible for drafting and sealing documents for a high official. In time, the chancellor's office became a separate entity with its own responsibilities and functions.

Origin of Chancery

The concept of chancery originated in the Middle Ages, during the reign of the Roman Emperor Charlemagne (742-814). Charlemagne established a central office known as the "notary's office" or "chancellery," which handled the production and sealing of official documents. The term "chancellor" was used to refer to the head of this office.

Medieval Chancery

In medieval Europe, chanceries played an important role in royal administration. They were responsible for:

  • Drafting and sealing royal decrees, charters, and other documents
  • Maintaining records of official acts
  • Providing legal advice to the king and his council
  • Administering the seal of the realm

Court of Chancery

Over time, chanceries evolved into courts with equitable jurisdiction. They were established to provide remedies for individuals who could not obtain justice in the common law courts. The Court of Chancery in England, established in the 14th century, became a powerful and influential institution that played a significant role in shaping English law.

Modern Chancery

Today, the term "chancery" is primarily used in reference to courts that exercise equitable jurisdiction. In some countries, such as England and Australia, there are still separate chancery courts. In other countries, chancery jurisdiction is typically vested in the general court system.

chancery relate terms

  • chancellor

    Etymology Old French chancelier Middle Latin cancellarius Late Latin cancellarius f

  • chancel

    Etymology The word chancel comes from the Old French word cancel which in turn is de

  • chancellery

    Etymology and Origin The word chancellery originates from the Late Latin word cancell

  • chancery

    Etymology and Meaning of Chancery The word chancery has its roots in the late Latin ter

  • hamper

    Etymology Middle English hamper from Old French hanaper from Medieval Latin hanaperu

  • mogul

    Etymology The word mogul has its roots in the Persian language It is derived from the

  • attorney

    Etymology The word attorney originates from the Middle English word attourne which

  • court

    Etymology The word court originates from the Old French word cort which in turn deri

  • faithful

    Etymology The word faithful is derived from the Old French word fealté which itself

  • laconic

    Etymology From Ancient Greek λακωνικός lākōnikós meaning Laconic refe

  • mirror

    Etymology The word mirror comes from the Old French word mireor which in turn comes

  • consistency

    Etymology Latin consistentia standing together From consistere to stand together

  • canon

    Etymology The word canon originates from the Greek word kanōn meaning rule or m