Definition of "chancery" in English

noun

1. (historical) In England, formerly, the highest court of judicature next to the Parliament, exercising jurisdiction at law, but chiefly in equity; but under the jurisdiction act of 1873 it became the chancery division of the High Court of Justice, and now exercises jurisdiction only in equity

2. In the United States, a court of equity; equity; proceeding in equity.

3. The type of building that houses a diplomatic mission or embassy.

4. The type of building that houses the offices and administration of a diocese; the offices of a diocese.

5. (historical) In the Middle Ages, a government office that produced and notarized official documents.

6. (boxing, slang) The position of a boxer's head when under his adversary's arm.

7. (slang, archaic) Any awkward predicament.

8. (writing) Ellipsis of chancery hand.

adverb

1. (boxing) With the head of an antagonist under one's arm, so that one can pommel it with the other fist at will.

2. (figurative) In an awkward situation; wholly under the power of someone else.