bench

Definition of benchnext
1
as in judge
a public official having authority to decide questions of law appealed to the bench for leniency

Synonyms & Similar Words

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2
as in tribunal
an assembly of persons for the administration of justice a ruling from the bench is expected any day now

Synonyms & Similar Words

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of bench When talking about injuries, Altidore walked over to a wooden bench and knocked his fist on it. Bruce Y. Lee, Forbes.com, 14 June 2026 The entire Qatari team left its bench and joined him in celebration as the surprising number of fans in attendance celebrated. Chris Biderman, Sacbee.com, 13 June 2026 Who wants to watch Zion Williamson and Kawhi Leonard sitting on their team’s bench? Maurice O'Sullivan, The Orlando Sentinel, 13 June 2026 The two-seat rear bench removes, clearing full-length aisle space for bicycles, kayaks, skis and other long gear while opening more free living space at camp. New Atlas, 12 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for bench
Recent Examples of Synonyms for bench
Noun
  • The filing, submitted in the San Diego County Superior Court, seeks a judge’s order to condemn and destroy the embargoed kratom products, halt ongoing unlawful manufacturing and impose civil penalties.
    Karen Garcia, Los Angeles Times, 19 June 2026
  • The appeals court judge cited various cases where the 9th Circuit sided against religious institutions on being allowed to only hire like-minded employees, a coach praying after football games, and a fireman who was allegedly fired over his religious beliefs, among other cases.
    Jack Birle, The Washington Examiner, 19 June 2026
Noun
  • The trial at the Special Criminal Court, a tribunal created in 2015 to prosecute serious crimes committed during the country’s conflicts, centers on abuses at a prison and a military training center in Bossembélé, about 150 kilometers (90 miles) northwest of the capital, Bangui.
    ABC News, ABC News, 16 June 2026
  • Reuters — The governing body of world chess has suspended Russia, ​which was for decades the dominant force in the game, after a ruling by the world’s top sports tribunal in favour of Ukraine.
    CNN Money, CNN Money, 12 June 2026
Noun
  • Federal authorities arrested multiple people in connection with an alleged plot to target the Ultimate Fighting Championship event at the White House, thwarting an attack that court documents say would have involved drones, explosive devices and multiple gunmen.
    Christopher Cann, USA Today, 17 June 2026
  • In addition to a woman believed by authorities to be O'Brien's girlfriend, a 3-year-old was also in the apartment at the time of the initial shooting, according to court documents.
    WCCO Staff, CBS News, 17 June 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Bench.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/bench. Accessed 20 Jun. 2026.

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