Forensic Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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forensic

[fəˈrɛn.zɪk ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

related to science

Forensic refers to the application of scientific methods and techniques to investigate crime and analyze evidence. It encompasses various fields such as biology, chemistry, and psychology to assist in legal matters.

Synonyms

criminalistics, judicial, legal.

Examples of usage

  • Forensic science played a critical role in solving the case.
  • The forensic team collected DNA evidence from the crime scene.
  • Forensic experts examined the fingerprints found on the weapon.
Context #2 | Noun

legal evidence

Forensic can also refer to the field of study involving the gathering and analysis of evidence to be used in a court of law. This may include various disciplines such as forensic anthropology, forensic pathology, and forensic odontology.

Synonyms

forensic medicine, forensic science.

Examples of usage

  • She pursued a career in forensic to help bring justice.
  • The forensic report was crucial in the trial.
  • Forensic analysis revealed new insights into the investigation.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Science

  • Forensic scientists often analyze physical evidence, including hair, fingerprints, and bodily fluids.
  • The development of DNA profiling in the 1980s revolutionized forensic science, improving the accuracy of identifying suspects.
  • Forensic anthropology uses skeletal remains to determine identity and cause of death, providing crucial insights in unexplained cases.

Pop Culture

  • Shows like 'CSI: Crime Scene Investigation' popularized forensic science and brought attention to the field.
  • Many crime novels, such as those by Patricia Cornwell, have forensic science as a central theme, captivating readers with mysteries.
  • The rise of true crime podcasts has led to increased public interest in forensic methods and real-life cases.

Psychology

  • Forensic psychology combines psychological principles with the criminal justice system, aiding in criminal profiling.
  • Experts in this field assess the mental state of defendants, offering insights into motives and behavior during trials.
  • Research in forensic psychology can help understand why people commit crimes and how to prevent them.

Literature

  • Greek tragedies often included themes of justice and morality, resembling modern forensic investigations.
  • Detective fiction has a long history, beginning with Edgar Allan Poe, which set the stage for forensic techniques in storytelling.
  • Forensic elements can be found in classic literature, where characters often have to unravel complex mysteries.

Origin of 'forensic'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'forensic' comes from the Latin 'forensis', which means 'in open court' or 'public'.
  • It was first used in the context of legal matters in the early 17th century, emphasizing the connection to law.
  • Its roots also trace back to the Greek word 'foros', meaning 'forum', where public debates occurred.

The term 'forensic' derives from the Latin word 'forensis,' which means 'of or before the forum.' In ancient Rome, a forum was a public space where legal cases were presented and debated. The application of science to law has evolved over time, but the roots of forensic practices can be traced back to these early legal proceedings. During the 19th century, as scientific methods became more rigorously developed, the field of forensic science began to take shape, leading to the establishment of various disciplines that apply scientific principles to legal contexts. This evolution paralleled advancements in technology and medicine, further solidifying the importance of forensic evidence in criminal investigations and legal proceedings.


Word Frequency Rank

Ranked #12,391, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.