Impeachment

/ɪmˈpiːtʃmənt/

Meaning & Definition

noun

The process by which a legislative body levels charges against a government official, typically a president, to remove them from office.

The House of Representatives initiated the impeachment of the president after the scandal emerged.

The formal accusation of misconduct against a public official.

The senator was facing impeachment for alleged corruption and abuse of power.

The outcome of the process of impeachment, which may or may not lead to removal from office.

The impeachment of the governor highlighted deep divisions within the state legislature.

Middle English, from Old French 'empechier', meaning 'to hinder'.

impeachment proceedings

The legal process involved in impeaching an official.

impeachment trial

The trial that follows the articles of impeachment.

impeachment inquiry

An investigation to determine whether sufficient grounds for impeachment exist.

accusation

A statement saying that someone has done something wrong.

misconduct

Unacceptable or improper behavior.

removal

The act of being taken away from office.

Impeach

The politician was getting impeached for his actions.

Getting the boot

After the scandal, the president was facing the boot through impeachment.