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Indicting: meaning, definitions and examples

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indicting

 

[ ɪnˈdaɪtɪŋ ]

Verb
Context #1 | Verb

legal context

Indicting refers to the formal process of charging someone with a crime. Typically initiated by a grand jury, an indictment signifies that there is enough evidence to proceed with a criminal trial. It is not a determination of guilt but rather a preliminary legal action suggesting sufficient suspicion exists. This term is primarily used in United States law and signifies a serious legal step in the judicial process.

Synonyms

accusing, arraigning, charging

Examples of usage

  • The grand jury is responsible for indicting suspects.
  • He was indicted on multiple charges including fraud.
  • Indicting a public official requires careful scrutiny.

Translations

Translations of the word "indicting" in other languages:

🇵🇹 acusando

🇮🇳 आरोपित करना

🇩🇪 anklagend

🇮🇩 menuduh

🇺🇦 обвинувачуючи

🇵🇱 oskarżający

🇯🇵 起訴する

🇫🇷 inculpant

🇪🇸 acusando

🇹🇷 suçlama

🇰🇷 기소하는

🇸🇦 اتهام

🇨🇿 obviňující

🇸🇰 obviňujúci

🇨🇳 起诉

🇸🇮 obtožujoč

🇮🇸 ákæru

🇰🇿 айыптау

🇬🇪 ბრალდების

🇦🇿 ittiham edən

🇲🇽 acusando

Etymology

The term 'indict' comes from the Latin word 'indictare', which means 'to declare, announce, or to indicate'. It evolved through Old French as 'endicter', referring to the formal action of bringing a charge against someone. Its use in the legal context is primarily found in Anglo-American law systems, where the indictment process serves as a critical checkpoint in prosecuting criminal cases. The term gained prominence in the 19th century, coinciding with the establishment of formalized legal proceedings and grand jury systems in the United States. This practice is essential for ensuring that individuals are not subjected to unreasonable legal action without due process.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #34,704 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.