Meaning & Definition of word "Perjury"
Perjury
/ˈpərjərē/
noun:
- 1. The act of deliberately giving false information or testimony while under oath.
- Example: The defendant was charged with perjury after he lied during his testimony.
- 2. A criminal offense that involves the willful giving of false information or testimony after taking an oath.
- Example: She faced severe penalties for committing perjury in the courtroom.
- 3. The legal term used to describe the act of lying under oath, especially in a judicial context.
- Example: By committing perjury, he jeopardized not only his case but also his credibility.
Etymology
●Middle English 'perjurie', from Latin 'perjurium', meaning 'false oath'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
perjure oneself:
To commit perjury or lie under oath.
to commit perjury:
To intentionally provide false statements while sworn to tell the truth.
Related Words
oath:
A solemn promise regarding one’s future action or behavior.
testimony:
A formal written or spoken statement, especially in a court of law.
deposition:
A witness's sworn out-of-court testimony.
Slang Meanings of perjury
Meaning: Lying while under pressure.
● Example Sentence: He was caught perjuring himself when things got too hot.
Meaning: Bending the truth.
● Example Sentence: She totally perjured during that meeting, but nobody noticed.