Legal Definitions - silentiary

Definition: A silentiary (sI-len-shee-air-ee) is an official who has the responsibility of maintaining order and silence in various settings.

There are three different types of silentiaries:

1. Roman law silentiary: This official maintains order in the imperial palace and on the imperial council. They are also known as a chamberlain.
2. State secrets silentiary: This officer is sworn to silence about state secrets. They are usually a privy councillor.
3. Court silentiary: This court usher maintains order and silence in the court.

For example, a Roman law silentiary would ensure that everyone in the imperial palace and council follows the rules and behaves appropriately. A state secrets silentiary would be responsible for keeping confidentialinformation safe and not sharing it with anyone. A court silentiary would make sure that everyone in the court is quiet and respectful during proceedings.