Definition

A prothonotary is a chief clerk or record keeper in a court of law, often responsible for maintaining official documents and records.

Example

The prothonotary filed the court documents in the official records.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of a protonotary?

No, I haven't. What is it?

It's actually a term used for a type of official in some legal systems.

That sounds interesting! I always love learning new words.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Protonotary is formed from "proto-" (meaning first) and "notarius" (meaning notary or scribe). The term originally referred to the chief notary or the first among notaries, indicating a position of primary importance in legal or administrative matters.

Memory Tip

Think of 'first' ('proto-') and 'notary' as someone who records important documents — a protonotary is the chief scribe or the first among them.

Visually Confused Words