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Definition of arraignment

arraignment

/əˈreɪn.mənt/
ar · raign · ment
Plural:arraignments
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arraignment Lexical Profile

arraignment Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

A formal legal proceeding in which a defendant is brought before a court to hear the criminal charges against them and enter a plea.

Example

"During the arraignment, the defense attorney entered a plea of not guilty on behalf of her client."

2

A severe accusation, denunciation, or critical calling to account of a person, institution, or practice.

Example

"The investigative report served as a scathing arraignment of corporate negligence in the energy sector."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Rhymes for arraignment

• Nearby Words

arpeggio
arracacha
arraign
arraignment
arrange
arrangeable
arrangement

Word Origin & Etymology

Coined in the late 16th century from the verb 'arraign' plus the noun suffix '-ment'. 'Arraign' derives from Anglo-French 'arainer' (to call to account), ultimately tracing back to Latin 'ratio' (reason or account).

Cite this Entry

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