Perjury

/ˈpərjərē/

Meaning & Definition

noun

The act of deliberately giving false information or testimony while under oath.

The defendant was charged with perjury after he lied during his testimony.

A criminal offense that involves the willful giving of false information or testimony after taking an oath.

She faced severe penalties for committing perjury in the courtroom.

The legal term used to describe the act of lying under oath, especially in a judicial context.

By committing perjury, he jeopardized not only his case but also his credibility.

Middle English 'perjurie', from Latin 'perjurium', meaning 'false oath'.

perjure oneself

To commit perjury or lie under oath.

to commit perjury

To intentionally provide false statements while sworn to tell the truth.

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.

Lying while under pressure.

He was caught perjuring himself when things got too hot.

Bending the truth.

She totally perjured during that meeting, but nobody noticed.