appellate

adjective

ap·​pel·​late ə-ˈpe-lət 

: of, relating to, or recognizing appeals

specifically : having the power to review the judgment of another tribunal

an appellate court

Examples of appellate in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The appellate court ruled that the inaccurate testimony was materially misleading and could have influenced the jury’s decision, violating Andrea Yates’ right to a fair trial. —Isabella Wandermurem, Time, 6 Jan. 2026

The appellate panel denied the Oppermans’ appeal, making some important rulings that provide guidance to all California HOAs. —Kelly G. Richardson, San Diego Union-Tribune, 6 Jan. 2026

But an appellate court panel put that decision on hold for the time being, allowing the facility to stay open. —Mike Schneider, Sun Sentinel, 5 Jan. 2026

The appellate court sided with Kolalou and upheld the verdict awarding her nearly $3 million. —Adam Harrington, CBS News, 4 Jan. 2026

Word History

Etymology

borrowed from Medieval Latin appellātus, past participle of appellāre "to appeal against a judgment," going back to Latin, "to speak to, address, apply to for support, refer to a higher authority" — more at appeal entry 2

First Known Use

1765, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for appellate

• chelate
• pellet
• prelate
• zealot

Kids Definition

appellate

adjective

ap·​pel·​late ə-ˈpel-ət 

: having the power to review the decisions of a lower court

an appellate court

Legal Definition

appellate

adjective

ap·​pel·​late ə-ˈpe-lət 

: of or relating to appeals or the power to hear appeals

the appellate process

an appellate court