PROVOST of a city or town, is the chief municipal magistrate in several trading cities, particularly Edinburgh, Paris, &c. being much the same with mayor in other places. He presides in city-courts, and, together with the bailies, who are his deputies, determines in all differences that arise among citizens.

The provost of Edinburgh is called lord, and the same title is claimed by the provost of Glasgow. The former calls yearly conventions of the royal boroughs to Edinburgh by his messengers, and is, ex officio, president to the convention when met.