parents; magistrate; courtroom (archaic)
Meanings
3 senses · 6 examplesnoun
parents (polite or literary term)
literaryA respectful, traditional term for one's parents, commonly used in formal letters, classical literature, or when speaking politely about one's mother and father.
Having both parents alive and well is my greatest blessing.
He sends money home every month to support his parents.
noun
(in former times) the presiding magistrate or judge (as addressed by the accused)
archaicUsed in imperial China when a defendant or prisoner addressed the interrogating official. Often paired with respectful phrases like '堂上明鉴' (Your Honor is perceptive).
I beg Your Honor to show mercy; this humble person is wronged!
Your Honor is perceptive; this matter was not done by me.
noun
(in former times) the courtroom; the hall of interrogation
archaicRefers to the physical location where trials or interrogations were conducted in imperial yamens or courts. Similar in meaning to '公堂'.
Escort the prisoner to the courtroom!
The court is majestic; unauthorized persons may not enter.