Synonyms of bench

bench

noun

ˈbench 

1

as in judge

a public official having authority to decide questions of law

appealed to the bench for leniency

Synonyms & Similar Words

• judge
• court
• magistrate
• jurist
• justice
• circuit judge
• beak
• chief justice
• adjudicator
• justice of the peace
• auditor
• squire
• master
• jurisconsult
• jurisprudent

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

• tribunal
• court
• judiciary
• court of law
• forum
• bar
• judicature
• criminal court
• judicatory
• high court
• supreme court
• court-martial
• kangaroo court
• inquisition
• drumhead court-martial

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of bench

My current assignment in the Felony Mental Health Division does not involve traditional jury or non-jury bench trials because the division primarily handles competency and criminal responsibility proceedings. — Schnelle Tonge, Sun Sentinel, 16 July 2026

Over three years later, Babcock is returning to the NHL behind the Oilers’ bench. — Julian McKenzie, New York Times, 16 July 2026

And that final moment on the park bench, before Armand and Daniel cut Lestat and Louis’s heads off, their fingers briefly touch. — Roxana Hadadi, Vulture, 15 July 2026

Breaux, 50, was the first victim, sleeping on a bench in Davis’ Central Park when he was fatally attacked. — Darrell Smith, Sacbee.com, 15 July 2026