defendants
|de-fend-ants|
B2
/dɪˈfɛndənts/
(defendant)
accused in court
Etymology
Etymology Information
'defendant' originates from Old French, specifically the word 'defendre,' where 'de-' meant 'away' and 'fendre' meant 'to strike.'
Historical Evolution
'defendre' transformed into the Middle English word 'defendaunt,' and eventually became the modern English word 'defendant.'
Meaning Changes
Initially, it meant 'one who defends,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'one who is accused in a court of law.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
individuals, companies, or institutions sued or accused in a court of law.
The defendants were found not guilty by the jury.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Last updated: 2025/04/17 06:58