Defendant
/dɪˈfɛndənt/
Definitions
A person or group accused of a crime or against whom a lawsuit is brought in a court of law.
/dɪˈfɛndənt/
The person or party against whom a claim or charge is brought in a court.
The defendant pleaded not guilty to all charges.
💡 Simply: Imagine someone is accused of doing something wrong and has to go to court to say their side of the story. That person is the defendant. They're trying to defend themselves!
👶 For kids: The person who is accused of something and has to go to court.
More Examples
The jury found the defendant liable for damages.
The defendant's rights must be protected throughout the legal process.
How It's Used
"The defendant was found guilty of theft."
"The defendant's lawyer argued for his innocence."
From Latin defendere ('to defend'). Originally referred to someone defending a legal case.
The term has been used in legal contexts since the 14th century, initially referring broadly to someone defending themselves. Its legal usage evolved over time.
Memory tip
Think of the person who has to DEFEND themselves in court.
Word Origin
"to defend"