Convict Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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convict

[kənˈvɪkt ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

legal system

A person found guilty of a crime and serving a sentence in prison.

Synonyms

criminal, inmate, offender, prisoner.

Examples of usage

  • The convict was sentenced to 10 years in prison for robbery.
  • The prison was filled with dangerous convicts.
Context #2 | Verb

legal system

To declare someone guilty of a criminal offense by the verdict of a jury or the decision of a judge.

Synonyms

condemn, find guilty, sentence.

Examples of usage

  • The jury convicted the defendant of murder.
  • He was convicted of fraud and sentenced to five years in prison.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Legal System

  • Conviction in a court usually requires evidence and a jury or judge's decision.
  • In many jurisdictions, a convict has the right to appeal their conviction if they believe there was an error in the trial.
  • The process of convicting someone can vary significantly between countries, reflecting differing legal systems.

Pop Culture

  • Films and books often explore the lives and challenges of convicts, including rehabilitation and societal reintegration.
  • Shows like 'Orange is the New Black' provide a lens into the experiences of women in prison, highlighting individual stories.
  • Famous convicts, such as figures in crime history, are often romanticized or depicted in media, shaping public perception.

Psychology

  • The stigma associated with being a convict can affect mental health, leading to issues like depression and anxiety.
  • Studies show that societal views on convicts can influence their likelihood of reoffending after prison.
  • Cognitive dissonance often occurs when individuals justify their actions, leading to complex psychological narratives in their lives.

Sociology

  • Convicts are often seen as outsiders, facing challenges reintegrating into society, including finding jobs and housing.
  • Research indicates that community support programs can reduce recidivism rates among convicts.
  • The conversation around prison reform emphasizes the need for an understanding of the socio-economic factors contributing to crime.

Origin of 'convict'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from Latin 'convictus', meaning 'to overcome' or 'to find guilty'.
  • In the late Middle Ages, the word began to be used specifically for those found guilty in a court.
  • The term evolved to refer not just to the act of convicting, but also to the person convicted.

The word 'convict' originated from the Latin word 'convictus', which means 'proved guilty'. During the 17th century, the term was used in legal contexts to refer to a person found guilty of a crime. Over time, it became commonly associated with individuals serving sentences in prisons as a result of their convictions. The concept of convicting individuals for crimes has been a fundamental aspect of legal systems worldwide.


See also: conviction, convictions, convicts.

Word Frequency Rank

Position #9,807 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.