jury

¹

[joor-ee]

noun

plural

juries 

1. a group of persons sworn to render a verdict or true answer on a question or questions officially submitted to them.

2. such a group selected according to law and sworn to inquire into or determine the facts concerning a cause or an accusation submitted to them and to render a verdict to a court.

3. a group of persons chosen to adjudge prizes, awards, etc., as in a competition.

verb (used with object)

juried, jurying 

1. to judge or evaluate by means of a jury.

   All entries will be juried by a panel of professionals.

jury

²

[joor-ee]

adjective

Nautical.

1. makeshift or temporary, as for an emergency.

   a jury mast.

jury

¹

/ ˈdʒʊərɪ /

noun

1. a group of, usually twelve, people sworn to deliver a true verdict according to the evidence upon a case presented in a court of law See also grand jury petit jury

2. a body of persons appointed to judge a competition and award prizes

3. informal,  it has not yet been decided or agreed on

jury

²

/ ˈdʒʊərɪ /

adjective

1. nautical (in combination) makeshift

   jury-rigged

Grammar Note

See collective noun.

Other Word Forms

• juryless adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of jury¹

1250–1300; Middle English jurie, juree, < Old French juree oath, juridical inquiry, noun use of juree, feminine past participle of jurer to swear; jurat

Origin of jury²

1610–20; compare jury mast (early 17th century), of obscure origin; perhaps to be identified with late Middle English i ( u ) were help, aid, aphetic form of Old French ajurie, derivative of aidier to aid, with -rie -ry

Word History and Origins

Origin of jury¹

C14: from Old French juree, from jurer to swear; see _juror

Origin of jury²

C17: of unknown origin

Idioms and Phrases

Idioms

1. the jury is (still) out, a decision, determination, or opinion has yet to be rendered.

   The jury is still out on the president's performance.

Example Sentences

“We appreciate the jury’s attention and careful consideration of the evidence. We hope that this verdict brings a sense of closure to Yanelly’s family and friends.”

From Los Angeles Times

The panel said Monguia also made improper remarks to prospective jurors including one woman whom he referred to as a “hot mess” after she disclosed her son’s criminal history during jury selection in September 2022.

From Los Angeles Times

The jury failed to reach verdicts on two other defendants, a man and a boy, and a retrial will be held in 2026.

From BBC

The company, which asked for a jury trial, is seeking unspecified damages and an injunction.

From Los Angeles Times

But if Sir Laurie is effectively the jury here, it is the prime minister who is the judge.

From BBC

Related Words

• board 
• tribunal