rhizoverbBeta
DictionaryconvictionFinding of guilt
noun

conviction

A formal finding that someone is guilty of a crime.

The trial ends in a conviction.

Etymology
conLatinthoroughly
+victLatinovercome
+ionLatinaction or result

Latin con- and vincere express thoroughly overcoming. In legal conviction, evidence overcomes the accused person’s defense or denial, resulting in an official finding of guilt.

More examples

  • Her conviction was later overturned.
  • The prosecutor sought a conviction on both charges.
  • The record listed a prior conviction.

Forms

conviction · convictions

convict verb — find guilty of a crime

Similar words

guilty verdict
A formal finding of guilt.
judgment
A broader court decision.