Arraignment – Definition & Meaning

Arraignment is a legal term that is often used in the criminal justice system. It is a process that takes place in court, where a defendant is formally charged with a crime and asked to enter a plea. This article will provide an in-depth look at the definition and meaning of arraignment, as well as its origins, associations, synonyms, antonyms, and example sentences.

Definitions

Arraignment is defined as the formal reading of charges against a defendant in court, where the defendant is asked to enter a plea. It is a critical step in the criminal justice system, as it sets the tone for the rest of the legal proceedings.

Origin

The term arraignment comes from the Old French word ‘arraigner,’ which means to call to account. The word was first used in English legal texts in the 14th century.

Meaning in different dictionaries

According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, arraignment is “the act of arraigning someone in court, especially to plead to a criminal charge.” The Oxford English Dictionary defines it as “the formal reading of a criminal charge to a defendant and the defendant’s response to the charge, either by pleading guilty or not guilty.”

Associations

Arraignment is often associated with the criminal justice system, as it is a critical step in the legal proceedings. It is also associated with the legal concept of due process, which ensures that defendants are treated fairly and have the opportunity to defend themselves in court.

Synonyms

Some synonyms for arraignment include indictment, charge, accusation, and complaint.

Antonyms

There are no direct antonyms for arraignment, but some related terms may include acquittal, exoneration, and dismissal.

The same root words

The word arraignment shares its root with other legal terms, such as arrange, array, and arrangeable.

Example Sentences

1. The defendant was brought to court for arraignment on charges of theft.
2. The judge asked the defendant to enter a plea at the arraignment hearing.
3. The defense attorney requested a continuance at the arraignment to prepare a defense.
4. The prosecutor presented the evidence against the defendant at the arraignment hearing.
5. The judge set bail at the arraignment hearing, pending the outcome of the trial.