verdict
VUR-dikt
/ˈvɜːrdɪkt/
A formal decision or finding made by a jury or judge on matters submitted to them in a trial.
Refers strictly to the finding of fact (guilty or not guilty), distinct from the subsequent sentence.
The story behind the word. Derived from Anglo-Norman 'verdit', originating from Latin 'verdictum'—literally 'that which is truly spoken' ('vere' + 'dictum'). A verdict represents speaking the true facts of a case.
Word relationships
- finding: 'Finding' can apply to administrative or scientific results, while 'verdict' is strongly legal.
- decision: 'Decision' is general; 'verdict' specifically implies a formal legal judgment.
Commonly confused with
- sentence: The verdict states whether the accused is guilty; the sentence specifies the punishment.
Word family
- verdicts (noun): Plural form of verdict.
Collocations
- reach a verdict
- deliver a verdict
- unanimous verdict
- guilty verdict
Idioms & expressions
- the verdict is in (a final decision has been made)
Example sentences
- "The courtroom fell dead silent as the jury foreperson prepared to read the verdict." Courtroom proceedings
- "After trying both options, the team's final verdict was to adopt the new software platform." General decision-making
Memory hook
VERI (very true) + DICT (dictate/speak) = speaking the truth. VERi-DICT = TRULY SPOKEN.
When not to use
Do not confuse with 'sentence' or 'punishment'. A verdict is the ruling on guilt, not the penalty.
Fun facts
- In ancient English law, juries were locked in a room without food, light, or fire until they reached a verdict.
Explore more words
jury, conviction, trial, adjudicate, indict, judge
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