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Expunging: meaning, definitions and examples

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expunging

 

[ ɪkˈspʌndʒɪŋ ]

Verb
Context #1 | Verb

legal removal

Expunging refers to the legal process of erasing or sealing a record, typically a criminal record, from public access. This action allows individuals to have their past offenses forgiven or forgotten, often aiding their reintegration into society. Expungement can vary by jurisdiction, with different rules governing what can be expunged and the process required. It provides a fresh start for those who have completed their sentences and wish to move forward without the stigma of their past.

Synonyms

clear, delete, erase, obliterate, remove

Examples of usage

  • He applied for expunging his criminal record.
  • After the expungement, she felt free from her past mistakes.
  • The lawyer explained the expunging process to his client.

Translations

Translations of the word "expunging" in other languages:

🇵🇹 eliminação

🇮🇳 नष्ट करना

🇩🇪 Löschung

🇮🇩 penghapusan

🇺🇦 виключення

🇵🇱 usunięcie

🇯🇵 抹消

🇫🇷 expulsion

🇪🇸 eliminación

🇹🇷 silme

🇰🇷 삭제

🇸🇦 إزالة

🇨🇿 vymazání

🇸🇰 vymazanie

🇨🇳 删除

🇸🇮 izbris

🇮🇸 útrýming

🇰🇿 жою

🇬🇪 წაშლა

🇦🇿 silinmə

🇲🇽 eliminación

Etymology

The word 'expunge' originates from the Latin verb 'expungere', which means 'to prick out, to mark for deletion'. It is composed of the prefix 'ex-' meaning 'out', and 'pungere', meaning 'to prick'. This terminology transitioned into Old French before being absorbed into the English language in the late 14th century. Over time, 'expunge' has retained a legal connotation, particularly related to the removal of records, highlighting the act of taking away something deemed unwanted or harmful. The evolution of its meaning reflects societal views on justice, redemption, and personal reform.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #34,376 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.