/juj"meuhnt/ , n.
1. an act or instance of judging.
2. the ability to judge, make a decision, or form an opinion objectively, authoritatively, and wisely, esp. in matters affecting action; good sense; discretion: a man of sound judgment.
3. the demonstration or exercise of such ability or capacity: The major was decorated for the judgment he showed under fire.
4. the forming of an opinion, estimate, notion, or conclusion, as from circumstances presented to the mind: Our judgment as to the cause of his failure must rest on the evidence.
5. the opinion formed: He regretted his hasty judgment.
6. Law.
a. a judicial decision given by a judge or court.
b. the obligation, esp. a debt, arising from a judicial decision.
c. the certificate embodying such a decision and issued against the obligor, esp. a debtor.
7. a misfortune regarded as inflicted by divine sentence, as for sin.
8. ( usually cap. ) Also called Last Judgment, Final Judgment . the final trial of all people, both the living and dead, at the end of the world.
Also, esp. Brit., judgement .
[ 1250-1300; ME jug ( g ) ement jugement, equiv. to juge- (s. of jugier to JUDGE) + -ment -MENT ]
Syn. 1. determination. 2. discrimination, discernment, perspicacity; sagacity, wisdom, intelligence, prudence. 6a . verdict, decree.