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Indict Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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indict

[ɪnˈdaɪt ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

legal

Formally accuse of or charge with a serious crime.

Synonyms

accuse, arraign, charge, impeach.

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Word Description / Examples
indict

This word is used in legal contexts when someone is formally charged with a serious crime by a grand jury.

  • The grand jury decided to indict the businessman for fraud.
  • He was indicted on multiple counts of embezzlement.
charge

This can be used both formally and informally when someone is officially accused of a crime or wrongdoing.

  • The police charged him with burglary.
  • She was charged with falsifying documents.
accuse

This is a more general term used when someone says another person has done something wrong or illegal.

  • She accused him of stealing her wallet.
  • They were accused of lying to the authorities.
arraign

This term is used in a legal setting when someone is brought before a court to respond to a criminal charge.

  • The suspect was arraigned in front of the judge this morning.
  • He was arraigned on charges of murder.
impeach

Used specifically in political contexts when a public official is charged with misconduct while in office. It often carries negative connotations.

  • The parliament voted to impeach the president for corruption.
  • He was impeached for violating the constitution.

Examples of usage

  • The rapper was indicted on weapons charges.
  • The committee indicted him for fraud.
  • The grand jury decided not to indict the suspect.
  • The prosecutor plans to indict the CEO for embezzlement.
  • The judge ordered to indict the suspect for perjury.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Law and Justice

  • Typically, an indictment is issued by a grand jury, which is a group of citizens who review evidence.
  • In the U.S., an indictment is often required for serious felonies, ensuring that legal action is taken with sufficient evidence.
  • The process of indictment allows for checks and balances, preventing unwarranted legal actions.

Cultural References

  • Indictments are frequently featured in crime dramas and legal thrillers, highlighting the tension of the legal process.
  • The term appears in famous cases, such as the Watergate scandal, showcasing its impact on media and public perception.
  • Indictments have been used in political rhetoric, often symbolizing accountability among public officials.

Psychological Perspective

  • The act of indicting someone reflects societal views on justice and the need for accountability.
  • Psychologically, being indicted can have significant repercussions on an individual’s mental health, often leading to anxiety and stress.
  • Studies show that high-profile indictments can influence public opinion and shape perceptions of guilt or innocence.

International Law

  • Many countries have similar legal processes, where formal accusations are necessary to proceed with serious charges.
  • International tribunals issue indictments for war crimes, emphasizing the global demand for justice.
  • Some nations have differing thresholds for what constitutes an indictment, reflecting their legal systems and cultural values.

Origin of 'indict'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin word 'indictare', meaning 'to declare or announce'.
  • In Old French, it became 'indict' before entering English in the late 14th century.
  • The legal term has been used in English law since its adoption in the 1300s.

The word 'indict' comes from the Latin word 'indictare', which means 'to declare or accuse'. The legal use of the word dates back to the 14th century in English law. It has been used in the context of formal accusations and charges, especially in criminal proceedings. Over time, 'indict' has become a common term in legal language to refer to the process of accusing someone of a serious crime.

See also: indictment.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #25,761, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.