Defendant Meaning in English
word
Definición
A defendant is the person, company, or organization that is accused in court or is being sued in a legal case. In criminal cases, the defendant is accused of a crime; in civil cases, the defendant is the party responding to a claim.
Uso & Matices
Mostly a legal term and common in news reports, court documents, and formal discussion. Do not confuse it with 'plaintiff' (the person who brings a civil case) or 'suspect' (someone believed to have committed a crime, often before trial). In criminal law, 'defendant' often means the accused person in court; in civil law, it can be a person or a company.
Oraciones de Ejemplo
The defendant spoke to the judge.
basic
The defendant said he was not there that night.
basic
The company was the defendant in the case.
basic
The jury didn't seem convinced by the defendant's story.
natural
The defendant looked nervous as the verdict was read.
natural
In court, the defendant has the right to remain silent.
natural