Convict

Part of Speech

Noun, Verb

Pronunciation

As a noun: /ˈkɒn.vɪkt/ (UK), /ˈkɑːn.vɪkt/ (US)

As a verb: /kənˈvɪkt/

Definitions

• Noun: A person found guilty of a crime and sentenced to imprisonment.
• Verb: To find someone guilty of a criminal offense in a court of law.

Usage Examples

• The convict served ten years in prison before being released.
• The jury decided to convict the defendant of fraud.
• Many convicts in history were transported to penal colonies.

Etymology

Derived from Latin convictus, meaning "proven guilty," from convincere ("to overcome, prove wrong").

Synonyms

• Noun: Prisoner, felon, inmate, offender.
• Verb: Sentence, condemn, judge guilty.

Antonyms

• Noun: Innocent, free person.
• Verb: Acquit, exonerate, absolve.

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

British English: /ˈkɒn.vɪkt/ (noun), /kənˈvɪkt/ (verb)

American English: /ˈkɑːn.vɪkt/ (noun), /kənˈvɪkt/ (verb)

Historical Usage

The term convict has been in use since the 16th century, particularly in legal contexts. During the 18th and 19th centuries, convicts were often transported to penal colonies such as Australia.

Cultural Nuances

In modern times, "convict" carries a strong negative connotation. Some justice systems prefer terms like "incarcerated person" to emphasize rehabilitation rather than criminal identity.

More Information

The legal status of convicts varies by country. Some regain full civil rights after serving time, while others face lifelong restrictions. In history, convict labor played a significant role in colonial expansion and infrastructure projects.