Legal Definitions - zygostates

Definition: Zygostates (zI-goh-stay-teez) is a term from Roman law that refers to a public weigher. This officer was responsible for resolving disputes over weight.

For example, if two merchants disagreed about the weight of a shipment of goods, they could bring their case to the zygostates. The zygostates would weigh the goods and determine the correct weight. This helped to ensure fair trade and prevent fraud.

Another example of the role of the zygostates was in the weighing of precious metals, such as gold and silver. These metals were often used as currency, so it was important to ensure that they were accurately weighed and valued.

Overall, the zygostates played an important role in maintaining fairness and accuracy in trade and commerce in ancient Rome.