district attorney

noun

1. an officer who acts as attorney for the people or government within a specified district.

district attorney

noun

1. (in the US) the state prosecuting officer in a specified judicial district

district attorney

1. An official responsible for representing the government in court cases and for prosecuting criminals.

Word History and Origins

Origin of district attorney¹

An Americanism dating back to 1780–90

Example Sentences

On Wednesday, Joshua Michael Richardson, 38, was charged with felony criminal threats and possession of six high-capacity gun magazines, brass knuckles and a sword, according to the Orange County district attorney’s office.

From Los Angeles Times

The district attorney’s office does not dispute its existence or that a staff member might have drawn it, but it doesn’t know who or when.

From Salon

No charges have been filed as a result of that investigation, the district attorney’s office confirmed.

From Los Angeles Times

Harris, a former senator, state attorney general and San Francisco district attorney, announced earlier this year she won’t seek to run for California governor in 2026.

From Los Angeles Times

The county responded by sending information on 17 individuals, including their names and addresses, who either self-reported being noncitizens or whose ineligibility was confirmed by the Orange County district attorney’s office.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• prosecutor