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Perjurer Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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perjurer

[ˈpəːdʒərə ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

legal system

A person who deliberately gives false testimony under oath.

Synonyms

deceiver, false witness, liar.

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Word Description / Examples
perjurer

This term is specifically used in legal contexts to describe someone who lies under oath, typically in a court of law.

  • The judge sentenced the perjurer to six months in prison for lying under oath
liar

This is a general term used to describe someone who frequently tells lies. It can be used in both formal and informal settings.

  • Everyone knew he was a liar, so no one took his stories seriously
false witness

This term is generally used in legal or formal settings to describe someone who provides false testimony, often causing harm to others.

  • The false witness claimed to have seen the suspect at the scene, but later recanted their statement
deceiver

This word is used more broadly to describe someone who deliberately tries to fool or trick others, not necessarily in a legal setting.

  • She felt betrayed when she realized she had been deceived by someone she trusted

Examples of usage

  • He was convicted as a perjurer after lying on the witness stand.
  • The perjurer was sentenced to five years in prison for his false testimony.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Legal Implications

  • In many countries, lying under oath can result in serious penalties, including jail time.
  • Perjury is considered a crime because it undermines the justice system by spreading false information.
  • The legal definition of perjury usually requires the liar to have knowingly made a false statement while under oath.

Historical Context

  • The word has roots in the Latin 'perjurare', which means 'to swear falsely'.
  • Historically, the practice of perjury has existed since ancient times, influencing legal systems in civilizations like Ancient Rome.
  • Famous historical trials, such as those during the Salem witch trials, sometimes involved charges of perjury being levied.

Psychology

  • Studies show that people might commit perjury out of a desire to protect themselves or someone else, revealing complex motivations.
  • Cognitive dissonance theory explains that some individuals might lie to align their actions with their beliefs, even under oath.
  • Witnesses or defendants may feel pressure to lie due to external or internal factors, including fear or loyalty.

Pop Culture

  • Perjury often features in courtroom dramas and crime shows, highlighting its dramatic implications for justice.
  • In literature and film, characters who commit perjury usually face severe consequences, serving as cautionary tales.
  • Famous legal cases and public figures have sometimes been embroiled in perjury allegations, sparking media frenzy.

Ethics

  • The concept emphasizes the importance of honesty in legal proceedings, which is crucial for fair trials.
  • Ethical dilemmas arise in situations where telling the truth could lead to severe repercussions for the witness or others involved.
  • Many argue that the potential for perjury can deter people from coming forward, affecting justice negatively.

Origin of 'perjurer'

The word 'perjurer' originated from the Latin word 'perjurare', which means 'to swear falsely'. The concept of perjury has been present in legal systems for centuries, as the act of lying under oath is considered a serious offense. Perjurers undermine the integrity of the justice system and can face severe consequences for their deceitful actions.

See also: perjure, perjury.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #37,100, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.