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Definition of complainant

complainant

/kəmˈpleɪ.nənt/
com · plain · ant
Plural:complainants
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complainant Lexical Profile

complainant Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

A person or party who brings a formal charge, initiates a legal action, or serves as the primary accuser in a court proceeding or official investigation.

Example

"The judge instructed the jury to carefully weigh the testimony provided by the complainant against the defense's evidence."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for complainant
Antonyms
View all antonyms for complainant

Word Nuance & Usage

Do not confuse 'complainant' with 'complainer': 'complainant' is a formal and legal term for a party who files an official complaint or lawsuit, whereas 'complainer' is an everyday word for someone who habitually grumbles or expresses dissatisfaction.

• Rhymes for complainant

• Nearby Words

complacent
complacently
complain
complainant
complainer
complainingly
complaint

Word Origin & Etymology

Borrowed in the late 14th century from Anglo-French 'complainant', the present participle of 'complaindre' (to lament or bring a legal grievance), ultimately from Late Latin 'complangere' (to beat the breast in grief).

Cite this Entry

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