What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
summoner
Example
The summoner delivered the subpoena to the defendant. [summoner: noun]
Example
The judge ordered the summoner to bring the witness to court. [summoner: noun]
bailiff
Example
The bailiff escorted the defendant out of the courtroom. [bailiff: noun]
Example
The bailiff was responsible for ensuring that the jury was sequestered during the trial. [bailiff: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Bailiff is more commonly used than summoner in everyday language. Bailiff is a more general term that can refer to a range of court officials, while summoner is a more specific term that refers to a particular role within the court system.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between summoner and bailiff?
Both summoner and bailiff are formal terms that are typically used in legal contexts. However, bailiff may be used in more informal settings, such as referring to a security guard in a courthouse, while summoner is less likely to be used outside of legal contexts.
