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acquittal

noun

/əˈkwɪt l/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of acquittal

The legal verdict of a defendant being found not guilty or cleared of charges in a criminal trial.
"After months of trial, the jury finally reached a unanimous decision of acquittal, declaring the defendant innocent."

Detailed meaning of acquittal

It signifies that the accused has been acquitted, absolved, or exonerated by a court of law due to insufficient evidence, lack of proof beyond a reasonable doubt, or a finding that the defendant did not commit the alleged crime. Acquittal is a fundamental principle of the justice system, ensuring that individuals are protected from wrongful conviction and that the burden of proof lies with the prosecution. It represents the favorable outcome for the defendant, as they are released from legal liability and are no longer subject to punishment or penalties associated with the charges. Acquittals can have significant implications for the accused, affecting their reputation, freedom, and future opportunities.

Example sentences containing acquittal

1. The high-profile case ended with a surprising acquittal, leaving many in disbelief.
2. The defense attorney skillfully argued for the defendant's acquittal, highlighting flaws in the prosecution's case.
3. The acquittal of the accused was met with mixed reactions from the public, with some celebrating and others expressing outrage.
4. Despite overwhelming evidence against him, the defendant's charismatic lawyer secured an unexpected acquittal.
5. The acquittal of the defendant was a significant blow to the prosecution's case and raised questions about the integrity of the investigation.
6. The judge carefully reviewed the evidence and delivered a verdict of acquittal, stating that there was reasonable doubt in the case.

History and etymology of acquittal

The noun 'acquittal' has its etymological origins in Latin. It is derived from the Latin word 'acquittare,' which is a combination of 'ad,' meaning 'to,' and 'quittare,' meaning 'to set free' or 'to absolve.' In its original sense, 'acquittal' referred to the act of setting someone free or absolving them from a debt or obligation. Over time, this term found its way into the realm of law, specifically criminal law, to describe the legal verdict of a defendant being found not guilty or cleared of charges in a trial. Its etymology reflects the idea of being released from a legal obligation or accusation, signifying the exoneration of an individual from criminal charges in contemporary legal contexts.

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Further usage examples of acquittal

1. The acquittal marked a pivotal moment in the defendant's life, allowing them to move forward and rebuild their reputation.
2. The acquittal came as a relief to the defendant's family, who had been supporting them throughout the lengthy trial.
3. The acquittal sent shockwaves through the legal community, prompting debates about the effectiveness of the justice system.
4. The prosecution was disappointed with the jury's decision of acquittal and vowed to pursue other avenues of justice.
5. The emotional courtroom erupted in applause and tears of joy as the judge announced the defendant's acquittal.
6. The defense attorney celebrated her client's acquittal in the high-profile case.
7. The jury's unanimous verdict was an unexpected acquittal for the defendant.
8. The media frenzy surrounded the celebrity's dramatic acquittal.
9. The family of the victim was devastated by the defendant's acquittal.
10. The lawyer's brilliant argument led to a swift acquittal.
11. The courtroom erupted in cheers upon hearing the acquittal.
12. The judge's decision to grant an acquittal surprised many.
13. The long-awaited acquittal brought relief to the accused.
14. The prosecutor was disappointed by the acquittal but respected the process.
15. The defendant's tears of joy followed the news of the acquittal.
16. The defense team's strategy played a crucial role in the acquittal.
17. The public debate over the high-profile acquittal continued for weeks.
18. The attorney delivered a powerful closing argument to secure the acquittal.
19. The community divided over the controversial acquittal verdict.
20. The wrongful accusation led to a well-deserved acquittal.
21. The judge explained the legal basis for the acquittal to the jury.
22. The defendant's family expressed gratitude for the acquittal.
23. The defendant's alibi played a pivotal role in securing the acquittal.
24. The acquittal marked the end of a challenging legal battle.