Main Entry: ²judge

Function: noun

Etymology: Middle English juge, from Anglo-French, from Latin judex

Date: 14th century

: one who judges: as a : a public official authorized to decide questions brought before a court b often capitalized : a tribal hero exercising leadership among the Hebrews after the death of Joshua c : one appointed to decide in a contest or competition : umpire d : one who gives an authoritative opinion e : critic

— judge·ship \-ˌship\ noun