Ayre

/ɛr/ noun

Definition

Archaic or Scottish form of 'air' or a historical term for an open-air court or traveling judicial session.

Etymology

From Old English 'aer' and Old Norse 'aerr' (air), but also an archaic legal term 'ayre' (journey/circuit) from Old French 'aire' relating to judicial circuits or assizes.

Kelly Says

In medieval Scotland and England, an 'ayre' was literally a judge traveling the countryside holding court—the word captures a time when justice came to you on horseback rather than you going to a courthouse.

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