statutory etymology

Etymology:

• Latin: statutum ("law, regulation")
• Old French: estatut ("law, statute")

Definition:

Statutory etymology refers to the origin and historical development of words used in legal documents, particularly statutes and laws. It involves examining the etymological roots of legal terms to understand their original meaning and how it has evolved over time.

Origin:

The term "statutory" originates from the Latin word statutum, which originally meant "a thing that has been decided or established." By the 12th century, statutum had come to refer specifically to laws or regulations enacted by a legislative body. The term entered English via Old French around the 14th century.

Meaning:

In the context of etymology, "statutory" means:

• Related to or derived from a statute or law
• Established or defined by legal authority
• Having the force or effect of law

Significance:

Statutory etymology plays a crucial role in legal interpretation and analysis. By understanding the etymological origins of legal terms, legal professionals can:

• Determine the original intent of the lawmakers who drafted the statute
• Identify potential ambiguities or inconsistencies
• Trace the evolution of legal concepts over time
• Gain insights into the social and historical context in which the law was created

Statutory etymology is an important tool for lawyers, judges, legal scholars, and anyone seeking a deeper understanding of the language and meaning of the law.

statutory relate terms

• statute

  Etymology The word statute comes from the Latin word statutum which means decree o

• code

  Etymology The word code comes from the Latin codex meaning tree trunk In ancient

• jail

  Etymology The word jail derives from the Old French word jaiole or gaiole which i

• plot

  Etymology Plot derives from the Old English word plot which meant a piece of land

• prayer

  Etymology The word prayer comes from the Middle English word preiere which in turn d

• oracle

  Etymology The word oracle derives from the Latin term oraculum which in turn comes f

• determination

  Etymology Latin determinare to mark off establish limits fix From de away o

• trend

  Etymology From Middle English trende from Old French trende from Latin trendere to

• compass

  Etymology Old French compas Latin compassus stride Vulgar Latin compassare to

• pink

  Etymology The word pink comes from the Middle English word pinke which in turn deri

• cleave

  Etymology Middle English cleven cliven from Old English clēofan to split divide