Verdict

Definition

A decision on a disputed issue in a civil or criminal case or an inquest.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈvɜrdɪkt/
• Respelling: VUR-dikt (with "VUR" representing the sound similar to the 'ur' in "fur" and "dikt" like in "dictate")

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈvɜːdɪkt/
• Respelling: VUR-dikt (similar to American English, but with "VUR" having a slightly longer vowel sound)

In both dialects, "verdict" has a similar pronunciation, with the main difference being in the length and quality of the vowel sound represented by 'ɜ' ('ɜː' in British English is slightly longer and more open). The rest of the word is pronounced similarly in both American and British English.

Etymology

The word "verdict" comes from the Old French "verdit", from Latin "vērdictum", which combines "vērum", meaning "truth", with "dictum", meaning "saying".

Derivatives

• Verdictless
• Pre-verdict
• Post-verdict
• Verdictive (rare)
• Misverdict (obsolete)

Synonyms

• Judgment
• Decision
• Ruling

Antonyms

• Accusation
• Allegation
• Charge

Usage

• "The jury returned a guilty verdict after deliberation."
• "The public had a different verdict on the movie than the critics."

Related Terms

• Judgment
• Ruling
• Decision
• Acquittal
• Conviction

Detailed Definition

Noun

• Legal Decision: An official decision by a jury regarding guilt or innocence in a criminal case or a decision about a claim in a civil case.
• Example: The court awaits the jury's verdict on the matter.

• Judgment or Opinion: Any judgment or decision given by an expert or the public about a particular matter.
• Example: The critics' verdict on the new play was overwhelmingly positive.

• Determination: A clear determination or definition of something.
• Example: The data provides a clear verdict on the efficiency of the new system.