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Definition of acquittal

acquittal

/əˈkwɪt.əl/
ac · quit · tal
Plural:acquittals
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acquittal Lexical Profile

acquittal Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

A formal legal judgment or verdict that a person is not guilty of the crime with which they have been charged.

Example

"The defense attorney presented compelling new evidence that ultimately led to the defendant's acquittal."

2

The discharge, settlement, or fulfillment of a debt, duty, or obligation.

Example

"The prompt acquittal of his financial obligations earned him the lasting trust of his creditors."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for acquittal
Antonyms
View all antonyms for acquittal

Word Nuance & Usage

In legal contexts, an 'acquittal' specifically means a court or jury has found the defendant not guilty due to insufficient evidence, whereas an 'exoneration' implies the person has been affirmatively proven innocent.

• Rhymes for acquittal

• Nearby Words

acquisition
acquisitively
acquit
acquittal
acre
acre river
acreage

Word Origin & Etymology

Dating back to the 15th century, the word combines the verb 'acquit' (from Old French 'aquiter', meaning to settle a claim or set free, ultimately from Latin 'quietus' meaning 'free' or 'at rest') with the noun-forming suffix '-al'.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Acquittal. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/acquittal
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