committal
committal Lexical Profile
committal Game Scores & Validity
• noun
The official legal act of sending a person to prison, a psychiatric hospital, or a higher court for trial.
"The magistrate ordered the defendant's committal to stand trial at the Crown Court next month."
The final part of a funeral ceremony in which the body of the deceased is formally consigned to its resting place for burial or cremation.
"Only close family members attended the brief committal at the graveside following the church service."
• adjective
Involving or expressing a definite commitment or clear opinion (rarely used except in contrast to 'noncommittal').
"The spokesperson gave a surprisingly committal answer regarding the company's upcoming merger."
Word Nuance & Usage
While 'commitment' refers broadly to a promise, dedication, or obligation, 'committal' is largely restricted to formal legal proceedings (sending someone to prison or trial) or the final stage of a funeral service.
• Rhymes for committal
• Nearby Words
Word Origin & Etymology
Formed in the early 17th century from the verb 'commit' plus the noun-forming suffix '-al', ultimately tracing back to the Latin 'committere' ('to bring together, entrust, or perform').