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Committal Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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committal

[kəˈmɪtəl ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

legal term

Committal refers to the act of sending someone to prison or a place of confinement, especially during a legal process. It can also denote the formal act of committing someone to a mental institution under legal guidelines.

Synonyms

detention, imprisonment, incarceration.

Examples of usage

  • The judge ordered the committal of the defendant.
  • A committal hearing was scheduled for next week.
  • Committal to a psychiatric facility requires specific criteria.
Context #2 | Noun

final disposition

Committal can also refer to the act of committing a body to the ground, often seen in funerals or burial rites. This usage emphasizes the finality of the act and the respectful handling of the deceased.

Synonyms

burial, entombment, interment.

Examples of usage

  • The committal service was held at the cemetery.
  • Family members gathered for the committal of their loved one.
  • The priest led the committal in a solemn ceremony.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Psychology

  • In psychology, committal often relates to the concept of commitment in relationships, which influences emotional security.
  • Studies show that committing to a partner can enhance life satisfaction and strengthen relationship bonds.
  • Committal has implications for mental health, as strong commitments can contribute to a sense of stability and purpose.

Literature

  • In various literary works, characters often face dilemmas about commitment, representing the struggle between freedom and responsibility.
  • Shakespeare explored themes of committal in works like 'Romeo and Juliet', where love leads to irreversible decisions.
  • Literary analyses often discuss how characters' willingness to commit affects plot development and their relationships.

Pop Culture

  • The concept of 'committing' is central in many reality TV shows, where relationships and alliances are put to the test.
  • Popular songs often revolve around themes of commitment and love, reflecting societal values on relationships.
  • Movies like 'Marriage Story' highlight the challenges of commitment, emphasizing the emotional stakes involved.

Origin of 'committal'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'committal' comes from the Latin 'committere', which means 'to commit' or 'to join together'.
  • It evolved in the late 19th century in English legal contexts, often referring to the act of committing a person to a mental health facility.
  • In modern usage, it can refer to serious commitments in both legal and personal contexts.

The word 'committal' originates from the late Middle English, deriving from the Latin root 'commitere,' meaning 'to put together, to bring together.' This Latin verb is a combination of 'com-' meaning 'together' and 'mittere' meaning 'to send.' Initially, the term was used in legal contexts to refer to the act of sending someone to prison or an institution. Over time, its meaning expanded to include the formal act of committing a body to a final resting place during burial ceremonies. The usage of 'committal' in a legal sense reflects society's practice of organized justice and the enforcement of laws, while its application in funerals showcases cultural rituals surrounding death and remembrance.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #21,226, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.