Definition

1. Noun:
   • A formal accusation of a serious crime: An "indictment" is a formal written statement, issued by a grand jury, charging a person with a crime. It is the legal step that brings a case to trial.
   • A severe criticism or condemnation of something: An "indictment" can also refer to a strong expression of disapproval or a judgment that something is wrong or flawed.

Usage Examples

• Noun (Legal):

  • The grand jury returned an indictment against the former mayor.
  • He was arrested and held without bail until the indictment was unsealed.

• Noun (Criticism):

  • The documentary is a powerful indictment of the country's healthcare system.
  • The high failure rate is an indictment of the current teaching methods.

Advanced Usage

• "to be an indictment of/against (something)": to serve as a strong criticism or proof of the faults of something.
  • The scandal was a damning indictment of corporate greed.
  • The report stands as an indictment against government inaction.

Variants and Related Words

• Indict (verb): To formally accuse or charge with a serious crime.
  • The prosecutor sought to indict the suspect on three counts of fraud.
• Indictable (adjective): (Of an offense) rendering the person who commits it liable to be charged with a crime.
  • Grand theft is an indictable offense.

Synonyms

• Accusation: A charge or claim that someone has done something illegal or wrong.
• Charge: A formal accusation of a crime.
• Censure: Strong criticism or disapproval.
• Condemnation: The expression of very strong disapproval.

Related Phrases

• Bill of indictment: The formal written document of an indictment.
  • The bill of indictment was filed with the court clerk.
• Under indictment: The state of having been formally accused of a crime.
  • The CEO resigned after being under indictment for tax evasion.

Idioms and Figurative Use

• A searing/scathing indictment: An extremely harsh and critical judgment.
  • The article was a searing indictment of political corruption.
• Vote of indictment: An expression or act that serves as a strong condemnation.
  • The public's loss of trust was a clear vote of indictment against the institution.

Noun

1. an accusation of wrongdoing
   • the book is an indictment of modern philosophy
2. a formal document written for a prosecuting attorney charging a person with some offense