Indict - Meaning, Definition & English Examples
To indict means to formally accuse someone of a crime, typically through a legal process like a grand jury. It signifies the start of criminal proceedings but does not imply guilt.
Definition:
To formally accuse someone of a crime, typically by legal process.
Synonyms:
charge, accuse, prosecute, impeach
Part of Speech:
verb
Antonyms:
acquit, exonerate
Common Collocations:
grand jury indict, indict for murder, federal indictment
Derivatives:
indictment, indictable, indicter
Usage Tips:
Use "indict" when referring to formal legal charges; avoid in casual accusations.
Common Phrases:
under indictment, indict on charges, face indictment
Etymology:
From Latin "indictare," meaning to proclaim or accuse formally.
Examples:
- 1. The prosecutor plans to indict the suspect next week.
- 2. The grand jury refused to indict the officer involved.
- 3. He was indicted on charges of fraud and embezzlement.
- 4. Can they indict someone without sufficient evidence?