Definition
The doctrine holding employers liable for employees' actions performed within the scope of employment, Latin for 'let the master answer.' The legal principle that picks the defendant with the deepest pockets.
Example Usage
Under respondeat superior, the hospital was liable for the nurse's negligence during surgery.
Origin
Latin phrase meaning 'let the superior answer,' rooted in Roman law master-servant relationships
Fun Fact
This doctrine doesn't apply to independent contractors, spawning endless litigation over who's really an employee—looking at you, gig economy.
Source: Tort and employment law terminology
Related Terms
Translate This Term
See “respondeat superior” in Corporate Speak, Gen-Z Slang, Pirate Speak, and more.
Try the Translator