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Perjured Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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perjured

[ˈpɜːr.dʒɚd ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adjective

legal context

The term 'perjured' refers to having committed perjury, which is the act of lying or making false statements under oath during legal proceedings. It is a serious offense in many jurisdictions, as it undermines the integrity of the judicial process. Individuals found to have perjured themselves can face criminal charges and severe penalties, including imprisonment. The concept emphasizes the importance of honesty and accountability in legal testimonies.

Synonyms

deceitful, dishonest, lying.

Examples of usage

  • The witness was found to be perjured in court.
  • He was charged with perjured statements during the trial.
  • Her perjured testimony led to a mistrial.
  • Lawyers must ensure that their clients do not provide perjured evidence.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Legal Context

  • In many legal systems, being found guilty of this offense can lead to severe penalties, including imprisonment.
  • Historically, it was often treated as a crime against the state’s integrity, with dire consequences for the offender.
  • Jurors and witnesses are usually subjected to oaths to prevent this; legal repercussions aim to protect the justice system.

Literature

  • Many classic works explore the themes of truth and deception, centering around characters who may face consequences for dishonesty.
  • In Shakespeare’s plays, characters frequently grapple with the moral implications of lying, highlighting the societal and personal costs of deceit.
  • Contemporary novels often delve into the psychological impacts of false testimony on both the individual and the broader community.

Psychology

  • Research shows that those who are dishonest may experience cognitive dissonance, feeling uncomfortable due to the contradiction between their actions and their values.
  • Lying, especially in critical situations, can lead to a breakdown of trust, affecting personal relationships and societal structures.
  • The stress of maintaining a lie can also result in significant emotional and psychological burdens for the individual.

Pop Culture

  • Several popular films and TV shows feature plotlines centered on characters who mislead others, highlighting themes of justice and morality.
  • The concept is often explored in crime dramas, where characters face the consequences of either truth or deception in court.
  • In games and interactive media, players may take on roles that involve choosing between honesty or deception, reflecting real-world dilemmas.

Origin of 'perjured'

Main points about word origin

  • The word originates from the Latin term 'perjurare,' meaning 'to swear falsely.'
  • It combines 'per-' (meaning 'through' or 'completely') with 'jurare' (to swear), indicating a total commitment to falsehood.
  • The term has been used in legal contexts for centuries, especially since the establishment of modern legal systems.

The term 'perjured' derives from the verb 'perjure,' which comes from the Latin word 'perjurare.' 'Per' means 'through' or 'by way of,' and 'jurare' means 'to swear.' The combination indicates the act of swearing falsely. This legal term has evolved through the ages, and its usage can be traced back to medieval times when oaths were commonly taken in court settings. The significance of oaths in legal proceedings has long been recognized, and the concept of perjury has since become a critical aspect of legal systems worldwide. As societies developed more complex legal frameworks, the consequences of perjured statements were codified in law, emphasizing the rule of law and the need for truthful evidence.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #26,856, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.