Meddix is derived from the compound medV(s)-diks meaning "one who speaks law".[1] Because of similarities in meaning, meddix has been compared to Latiniudex (judge).[2] The term is attested in Paelignan, Volscian, Marsian, Marrucinian, and Oscan insciptions.[3]
The term is very rarely used by roman writers, who prefer to substitute the word "praetor" or στρατηγος (strategos) instead. It is still occasionally used.[4] The term is attested in Oscan inscriptions as meddíss.[5]
The meddix tuticus was the head of state.[4] Under this position, a person had "unfettered" control over his tribe.[4] The meddix tuticus was the supreme military, religious, and legal official of the state.[4] The meddix tuticus also presided over the finances and could consult a council.[4] The meddix tuticus was reelected once a year.[4] Unlike the Roman consulate, there could only be one meddix tuticus[6], but this varied by tribe.[7]
^de Vaan 2008, pp. 169 "The meanings of Lat[in] iūdex and P[roto-]Sab[ellic] *med(es)-dik- are so similar that they suggest a common origin or mutual influence."
Salmon, Edward Togo (2010). Samnium and the Samnites (Digitally printed version ed.). Cambridge: Cambridge Univ. Press. ISBN978-0-521-06185-8. (originally published 1967)
Forsythe, Gary (2006). A critical history of early Rome: from prehistory to the first Punic War. The Joan Palevsky imprint in classical literature (1. paperback printing ed.). Berkeley, Calif.: Univ. of California Press. ISBN978-0-520-24991-2.