Arraign Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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arraign
[əˈreɪn ]
Definitions
law
Call or bring (someone) before a court to answer a criminal charge.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| arraign |
Used in a legal context when formally bringing someone before a court to answer criminal charges.
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| charge |
Used officially when someone is formally alleged to have committed a crime, especially by police or a legal authority.
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| accuse |
Generally used when someone is saying that another person has done something wrong or illegal.
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| indict |
A legal term used when a grand jury formally accuses someone of a serious crime.
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Examples of usage
- They were arraigned on charges of conspiracy to defraud.
- The suspect will be arraigned in court tomorrow.
formal
Call or bring (someone) before a person or group to answer questions.
Synonyms
examine, interrogate, question.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| arraign |
Used in legal contexts when someone is formally charged with a crime in court.
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| question |
A general term used in a variety of contexts to mean asking someone about something. Can range from casual inquiries to more formal or detailed questioning.
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| interrogate |
Used in a scenario where someone is being questioned aggressively, often associated with police or military investigations. Can have a negative connotation.
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| examine |
Used when investigating closely or looking into details. This can apply both in formal settings like examinations or investigations, and in everyday contexts.
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Examples of usage
- The committee will arraign the witness in the morning.
- The teacher will arraign the students about their behavior.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Legal Terminology
- In a courtroom, an arraignment marks the first step in the criminal justice process.
- During an arraignment, the defendant usually hears the charges and enters a plea, such as guilty or not guilty.
- Arraignments are generally quick, often lasting only a few minutes, but they are crucial for the legal proceedings.
Cultural References
- The term is often featured in crime dramas where characters rush to the courthouse for high-stakes arraignments.
- In literature, elements of trial and arraignment explore themes of justice and morality in society.
- Movies like '12 Angry Men' highlight the critical role of court proceedings, including arraignment, in shaping narratives of justice.
Psychology
- The anxiety faced during an arraignment can be significant, reflecting broader fears associated with legal trouble.
- Legal professionals often note that understanding this process helps defendants cope better with the emotional weight of court appearances.
- Research suggests that how a person is treated during an arraignment can influence their overall experience in the legal system.
Literature
- Several novels incorporate arraignments to set the scene for conflict and character development, showcasing moral dilemmas.
- Famous works often depict the tension and drama surrounding court cases, with arraignment serving as a pivotal moment.
- Playwrights use arraignment as a technique to build suspense and engage audiences with themes of justice and redemption.
Origin of 'arraign'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'arraign' comes from the Old French 'araigner', which meant to call someone to answer a charge.
- Its roots can be traced back to the Latin word 'renunciare', which means to announce or declare.
- Originally, the term was closely linked to the act of formally accusing someone.
The word 'arraign' originated from Middle English 'araynen' which means 'to call to account'. It has its roots in Old French 'araisnier' and ultimately from Latin 'rationare' meaning 'to talk'. The legal sense of 'arraign' developed in English around the 14th century, referring to the formal calling of someone to answer charges.