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Definition of mistrial

mistrial

/mɪsˈtraɪ.əl/
mis · tri · al
Plural:mistrials
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mistrial Lexical Profile

mistrial Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

A trial rendered invalid and terminated before a verdict is reached because of a fundamental procedural error, misconduct, or the inability of the jury to reach a consensus.

Example

"The judge declared a mistrial after the jury remained deadlocked following five days of intense deliberation."

Word Nuance & Usage

A mistrial is not the same as an acquittal; because no valid verdict has been reached, the case is not closed and the prosecution may usually seek a new trial (retrial) without violating the rule against double jeopardy.

• Rhymes for mistrial

• Nearby Words

mistreat
mistreatment
mistress
mistrial
mistrust
mistrustful
mistrustfully

Word Origin & Etymology

First recorded in the late 16th century, formed in English from the prefix 'mis-' (meaning 'wrongly' or 'improperly') and the noun 'trial' (from Anglo-French 'trier', meaning 'to try or sift').

Cite this Entry

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