Part of Speech

Verb

Pronunciation

/əˈreɪn/

Definitions

1. To formally charge someone with a crime in a court of law.

2. To bring someone before a court to answer to criminal charges.

3. To accuse or criticize someone publicly for their actions or behavior.

Usage Examples

• "The defendant was arraigned in court for theft charges."
• "The journalist arraigned the politician for his involvement in the scandal."
• "He was arraigned before the judge and pleaded not guilty."

Etymology

Derived from Middle English "arraigner," from Old French "areiner" (to call to account), from Latin "ad" (to) and "regina" (to judge). The term was first used in legal contexts during the late medieval period to describe the process of bringing someone before a court to face charges.

Synonyms

• accuse
• charge
• indict
• prosecute
• blame

Antonyms

• absolve
• exonerate
• acquit
• free
• discharge

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

The pronunciation of "arraign" may vary slightly depending on regional accents, though the standard pronunciation /əˈreɪn/ is widely accepted in both American and British English. In regions with stronger local dialects, the final vowel sound may shift slightly, but the meaning remains unchanged.

Historical Usage

The term "arraign" has its roots in Old French and Latin, with the meaning evolving as legal systems developed. Historically, it referred to a formal accusation within the medieval courts, a precursor to the modern legal practice of formally charging an individual in court. The term remains a significant part of legal parlance today.

Cultural Nuances

In a cultural context, "arraign" is not just a legal term but can also refer to public criticism or blame. It carries a certain weight in discussions of justice, legal reform, and accountability, especially in modern legal debates concerning criminal justice systems.

More Information

Arraignment is an essential part of the criminal justice process. It is the formal reading of criminal charges and the opportunity for the defendant to enter a plea. This procedure ensures that the defendant understands the charges against them and is provided with the opportunity to enter a plea, which can significantly impact the legal proceedings that follow.