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The word "warrant" has several definitions and fields of application, whether criminal justice, finance or the military. An adventurous and enlightening study awaits learners who seek to understand the origin of the word and its evolution of use in various categories of life.

Etymology

The English noun "warrant" originates from the Old French word "guarant or warant," meaning "protector or defender." In German history, the word "gewahren" meant "to grant." Used as a verb, warrant means "to guarantee to be of good quality."

Definitions

Merriam Webster's Dictionary includes definitions of warrant related to documents giving authorization to perform certain actions, as commonly used in the criminal justice system. Also, militarily the word applies to a certified appointment given to a lower-ranked officer.

Army

The U.S. military's "Army Warrant Officer" brochure explains that such officers receive appointment "by warrant by the Secretary of the Army."

Financial

The world of finance also makes use of warrants, a term used to describe investment tools granted by companies that allow holders to buy shares at established prices. The sale price of these shares typically exceed the stock market value in effect at the time of the warrant's issue.

Legal

In the American criminal justice system, types of warrants used regularly include bench, arrest, search and seizure.

Source:

Merrian Webster's Dictionary Definition

Wiley GAAP 2010: Interpretation and Application of Generally Accepted Accounting Principles; Barry J. Epstein; 2009

U.S. Army Warrant Officer Brochure

More Information:

Etymology Dictionary: Warrant