Finesentence mobile logo
Sign in Login / Register

Expunging Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐Ÿงน
Add to dictionary

expunging

[ษชkหˆspสŒndส’ษชล‹ ]

Definition

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

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

Interesting Facts

Law

  • In legal terms, expunging refers to the process of removing a conviction from someone's criminal record, making it as if it never happened.
  • Many jurisdictions provide a formal process for expunging records so individuals can reintegrate into society without the shadow of past mistakes.

Psychology

  • The act of expunging memories can relate to therapeutic techniques aimed at reducing the emotional impact of traumatic experiences.
  • Some psychologists suggest that mentally 'expunging' negative thoughts can lead to improved mental health and well-being.

Pop Culture

  • The concept of expunging can be seen in various films where characters try to erase parts of their pastโ€”like in the movie 'Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind'.
  • In TV shows, characters often seek 'expunging' through humorous or dramatic measures to clear their reputations.

Education

  • Schools have procedures for expunging disciplinary records to give students a fresh start after theyโ€™ve learned from their mistakes.
  • Educational institutions may provide resources to help students understand how to expunge or correct their academic records.

Origin of 'expunging'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'expungere', which means 'to prick out or erase'.
  • In Latin, 'punge' means 'to prick', linking it to the idea of puncturing something to eliminate it.

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.