Meaning & Definition of word "Plaintiff"

Plaintiff

/ˈpleɪntɪf/

1. A person who brings a case against another in a court of law.
- Example: The plaintiff argued that the defendant breached the contract.
2. A person who sues another person or entity in a civil court.
- Example: As the plaintiff, she presented her evidence to the jury.
3. A party who initiates a lawsuit.
- Example: The court dismissed the case because the plaintiff failed to appear.
4. In legal terms, the individual or group who claims to have suffered a loss or injury due to the actions of the defendant.
- Example: The plaintiff sought damages for the emotional distress caused by the accident.
5. In a civil trial, the individual or group that files a complaint.
- Example: The plaintiff's attorney prepared a strong opening statement.

Middle English, from Anglo-French 'plaintif', meaning ‘complaining’.

plaintiff's case:

The arguments presented by the plaintiff in a legal proceeding.

plaintiff and defendant:

The two main parties in a legal case, the plaintiff being the one who brings the action.

defendant:

The party against whom a lawsuit is filed.

litigation:

The process of taking legal action.

lawsuit:

A claim or dispute brought to a court of law.

Meaning: Sue-happy

Example Sentence: Some people are so sue-happy, they act like every little inconvenience makes them a plaintiff.

Meaning: Lawsuit tourist

Example Sentence: He's known as a lawsuit tourist, always trying to be the plaintiff in cases.