Convict: meaning, definitions and examples

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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.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • 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.

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.

Translations

Translations of the word "convict" in other languages:

🇵🇹 condenado

🇮🇳 अपराधी

🇩🇪 Verurteilter

🇮🇩 terpidana

🇺🇦 засуджений

🇵🇱 skazany

🇯🇵 有罪判決を受けた人

🇫🇷 condamné

🇪🇸 convicto

🇹🇷 mahkûm

🇰🇷 유죄 판결을 받은 사람

🇸🇦 مدان

🇨🇿 odsouzený

🇸🇰 odsúdený

🇨🇳 罪犯

🇸🇮 obsojenec

🇮🇸 dæmdur

🇰🇿 сотталған

🇬🇪 მსჯავრდებული

🇦🇿 məhkum

🇲🇽 convicto

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.