noun
praetor
PREE-ter/prˈitɝ/
A magistrate in ancient Rome ranking below a consul.
The praetor presides over the Roman hearing.
Etymology
Latin praetor meant “one who goes before,” originally describing a consul as an army leader. The title came to designate an elected Roman magistrate subordinate to the consuls.
In context
When Rome's two top executives, the consuls, marched off to war, the urban praetor became the highest-ranking official physically present in the capital. So, suddenly, this judge was left totally responsible for running a chaotic ancient metropolis.
More examples
- He was elected praetor in ancient Rome.
- The inscription named a former praetor.
- The historian described the praetor’s duties.
Forms
praetor · praetors
Similar words
- consul
- A consul held a higher Roman magistracy; a praetor had a different rank and duties.
- magistrate
- Magistrate is the broad office category; praetor identifies a specific ancient Roman office.