Legal Definitions - bachelor

The term "bachelor" has several distinct meanings, depending on the context:

• An Unmarried Man

  In its most common usage, a "bachelor" refers to an adult man who is not currently married. This can include men who have never been married, or those whose marriage has ended (e.g., through divorce or widowhood) and who have not remarried.

  • Example 1: After his sister's wedding, Mark, the only unmarried sibling, joked that he was now the last bachelor in the family.

    Explanation: This illustrates the term in a social context, highlighting Mark's status as an adult man who is not currently married.

  • Example 2: When Sarah decided to sell her house, she learned that her neighbor, a long-time bachelor, owned the adjacent undeveloped lot, which could impact her property's value.

    Explanation: Here, "bachelor" describes the neighbor's marital status, which might be relevant in legal considerations like property ownership or inheritance, where marital status can affect rights and responsibilities.

• An Undergraduate Academic Degree

  A "bachelor's degree" is the first academic degree awarded by universities and colleges upon successful completion of a course of study, typically lasting three to four years. It signifies a foundational level of knowledge and skill in a particular field.

  • Example 1: Upon successfully completing her four years of study in computer science, Emily was awarded her Bachelor of Science degree.

    Explanation: This example demonstrates the term as the formal academic qualification received after finishing an undergraduate program at a university.

  • Example 2: The job advertisement for the marketing manager position stated that candidates must hold at least a bachelor's degree in a relevant field.

    Explanation: This illustrates how a bachelor's degree serves as a common prerequisite for entry-level or mid-level professional roles, indicating a certain level of education and competency.

  • Example 3: Before applying to law school, applicants are generally required to have already earned a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution.

    Explanation: This shows that a bachelor's degree is often a foundational requirement for pursuing advanced academic or professional studies, such as a master's or doctoral program.

• A Form of Knighthood in English Law

  In English law and tradition, a "knight bachelor" is an individual who has been knighted by the British monarch but is not a member of one of the established orders of chivalry (such as the Order of the Garter or the Order of the Bath). This is the most common form of knighthood awarded for public service or achievement.

  • Example 1: Sir John Smith was created a Knight Bachelor in recognition of his extensive contributions to medical research.

    Explanation: This example clarifies that "Knight Bachelor" is a specific title bestowed by the monarch for merit, distinguishing it from membership in a formal order of chivalry.

  • Example 2: During the state dinner, the guest list prominently featured several individuals addressed as 'Sir' followed by their name, indicating their status as a Knight Bachelor or a member of an order of chivalry.

    Explanation: This illustrates how the title is used in formal settings and is a recognized form of honor within the British system, signifying a specific legal and social status.