compurgator

/kɒmpərˈɡeɪtər/

Definitions

1. noun

A person who vouched for the good character of another, especially in medieval England, by swearing to the accused person’s innocence.

“The compurgator stood before the judge, swearing to the accused man’s innocence.”

2. noun

A person who vouches for the good character of another or a defendant in a court of law, often in a formal or official capacity.

“The compurgator provided a character reference for the accused defendant in court.”

Synonyms

  • vouchsman
  • witness

Antonyms

  • accuser
  • defendant