judicial branch

noun

plural judicial branches
: the branch of government that is charged with trying (see try entry 1 sense 3) all cases that involve the government and with the interpretation and administration of laws and determination of rights within its jurisdiction : judiciary compare executive branch, legislative branch

Word History

First Known Use

1787, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of judicial branch was in 1787

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Cite this Entry

“Judicial branch.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/judicial%20branch. Accessed 9 Mar. 2026.

Last Updated: - Entry added
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