Warrant

Noun

Definition: A document issued by a legal or governmental authority that gives someone the right to do a particular thing.

Synonyms: Authorization, Permit, License

Antonyms: Prohibition, Ban, Restriction

Examples:

The police officer showed his warrant to search the suspect's house.
The judge issued a warrant for his arrest.

Mnemonics:

Think of a "legal document" when you hear the word "warrant".
"Warrant" sounds like "war rant", where "rant" signifies the authoritative nature of the document.

Verb

Definition: To give authority or justification to; to guarantee.

Synonyms: Justify, Authorize, Validate

Antonyms: Invalidate, Negate, Deny

Examples:

His hard work warrants a promotion.
The evidence does not warrant a conviction.

Mnemonics:

Think of "warrant" as a verb related to justifying or authorizing something.

Etymology:

Origin:

Middle English 'warant', from Old North French variant of Old French 'guarant', from 'warir' (to protect) + 'ant' (present participle suffix)

Historical Usage:

The word originated from Old French and has been used in English since the 14th century. It has evolved to encompass legal and authoritative meanings over time.

Related Idioms:

Idiom:

"Search warrant"

Explanation:

A legal document that authorizes law enforcement officers to search a specified location for specific objects or evidence.

Misconceptions:

Misconception:

Confusing 'warrant' (noun) with 'warrant' (verb).

Explanation:

'Warrant' can be both a noun and a verb with different meanings related to legal and authoritative contexts.