The word “means” is also used for logical entailment

Yes in the contexts you gave.

No in this context: they’re referring to the ruling on the legal definition.

You think I’m defending the stupid ruling.

Where does it say that?

It’s a technical discussion of a legal definition. Defense/preference/endorsement is not implied.

if we’re going about precisely characterizing things

Pinning down legal definitions is what the legal system does. No one is claiming to personally defend it.