Definition

Verb (transitive) To obtain or issue (a warrant for arrest) by making a formal statement under oath before a judge or magistrate. This legal term specifically refers to the official act of causing an arrest warrant to be issued based on sworn testimony alleging a crime.

Usage

This verb is used in formal, legal contexts. It describes the action taken by a law enforcement officer or a victim/complainant when they provide sworn evidence to a judicial authority to formally initiate an arrest process. * The police officer will swear out a complaint against the suspect. * The victim went to the courthouse to swear out a warrant for the assailant's arrest.

Examples

• After gathering sufficient evidence, the detective swore out a warrant for the suspect's arrest.
• The law allows a citizen to swear out a warrant if they have witnessed a crime.
• The warrant was sworn out in the county where the alleged offense took place.

Advanced Usage

• Passive Voice Construction: The phrase is often used in the passive voice, especially in news reports or official summaries (e.g., "A warrant was sworn out.").
• Legal Formality: The act of "swearing out" is the procedural step that transforms an allegation into a legally actionable court order (the warrant). It emphasizes the sworn, official nature of the accusation.

Variants and Related Words

• Swear (verb): To make a solemn promise or statement, often invoking a deity or something sacred as a witness. In law, it means to make a formal declaration under oath.
• Warrant (noun): A document issued by a legal or government official authorizing the police or another body to make an arrest, search premises, or carry out some other action relating to the administration of justice.
• Complaint (noun): In law, the initial pleading that sets out the facts and legal reasons the plaintiff believes are sufficient to support a claim against the defendant. One can "swear out a complaint."

Synonyms

• Obtain a warrant
• Procure a warrant
• Issue a warrant (based on sworn testimony)

Notes on Meaning

This term has a very specific legal meaning and is not used in general conversation. It does not mean to exhaust oneself by using profanity ("swear" in the sense of using curse words). Its meaning is entirely tied to the formal legal process of initiating an arrest via a sworn affidavit.

Verb

1. deliver a warrant or summons to someone
   • He was processed by the sheriff