A more thorough explanation:

A prothonotary, also known as a protonotary, is a chief clerk in certain courts of law. They are responsible for maintaining court records and performing administrative duties.

For example, in Pennsylvania, the prothonotary is responsible for filing and maintaining all civil court records. They also issue marriage licenses and administer oaths of office.

Another example is in the Catholic Church, where a prothonotary apostolic is a high-ranking member of the clergy who has the authority to grant certain indulgences.

Overall, a prothonotary plays an important role in the functioning of a court or organization by managing important documents and performing administrative tasks.