Meaning & Definition of word "Indictment"
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Indictment
/ɪnˈdaɪtmənt/
noun:
- 1. A formal charge or accusation of a serious crime.
- Example: The grand jury returned an indictment against the suspect for armed robbery.
- 2. A written statement charging a party with the commission of a crime.
- Example: The defendant was shocked to receive the indictment detailing the charges against him.
- 3. A sign or expression of strong disapproval.
- Example: The report served as an indictment of the government's handling of the crisis.
Etymology
Middle English, from Anglo-French, from 'indicter' meaning to proclaim, from Latin 'indictare'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
grand jury indictment:
A formal accusation issued by a grand jury.
sealed indictment:
An indictment that is kept confidential until it is unsealed by the court.
indictment in absentia:
An indictment issued when a defendant is not present.
Related Words
accusation:
A statement claiming that someone has done something illegal or wrong.
prosecution:
The act of conducting legal proceedings against someone in respect of a criminal charge.
conviction:
A formal declaration that someone is guilty of a criminal offense.
Slang Meanings of indictment
Meaning: Indictment Day
Example Sentence: When everyone expects big news and possible indictments to drop.
Meaning: Going down
Example Sentence: When someone is about to be indicted, people say they are 'going down'.