forensic
fuh-REN-sik
/fəˈrɛnsɪk/
Relating to the application of scientific methods and techniques to the investigation of crime.
While often used for DNA or fingerprints, it broadly refers to anything suitable for use in a court of law.
The story behind the word. In ancient Rome, the forum was the public square where legal business and debates were held. Anything 'forensic' was literally 'of the forum', meaning it was appropriate for public legal proceedings.
Word relationships
- investigative: Investigative is broader and can refer to journalism or private inquiries, while forensic implies scientific or legal standards.
Word family
- forensics (noun): The scientific tests or techniques used in connection with the detection of crime.
- forensically (adverb): In a manner suitable for a court of law or using scientific methods.
Collocations
- forensic evidence
- forensic pathologist
- forensic accounting
- forensic audit
Example sentences
- "Forensic science is the application of science to law." Professional definition of the field. (National Institute of Justice)
- "The forensic team spent hours at the site collecting hair and fiber samples." Describing a specific type of evidence.
Memory hook
Think of 'FOR' the 'ENSIC' (evidence). It is evidence for the court. The forum's evidence.
When not to use
Do not use it as a synonym for 'scientific' in general contexts; it must have a legal or investigative connection.
Fun facts
- The term also refers to the art of formal debate, which is why many high school 'forensics' teams focus on speech rather than crime scenes.
Related words
Explore more words
investigative, analytical, botanical, rigorous, detective, veracity
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