n.
-
(also high sheriff)
(in England and Wales) the chief executive officer of the Crown in a county, having administrative and judicial functions.
▸an honorary officer elected annually in some English towns.
- (in Scotland) a judge.
- US an elected officer in a county, responsible for keeping the peace.
- Austral. an officer of the Supreme Court who enforces judgements and the execution of writs.
Derivative
- sheriffdom n.
- sheriffhood n.
- sheriffship n.
Etymology
OE scīrgerēfa (see shire, reeve1).