acquittal

noun

ac·​quit·​tal ə-ˈkwi-tᵊl 

: a setting free from the charge of an offense by verdict, sentence, or other legal process

Synonyms

• clearing
• exculpation
• exoneration
• vindication

Examples of acquittal in a Sentence

The case resulted in acquittal of the defendant.

Several jurors voted for acquittal.

The case resulted in an acquittal of the defendant.

Recent Examples on the Web

Despite their failure to win an acquittal or a sentencing delay, or get the verdict overturned, Blanche, Bove and appeals lawyer D. John Sauer are poised to join his new administration in high-ranking Justice Department and White House roles. —Sean Piccoli, Deadline, 10 Jan. 2025

Finally, Daniel Penny's acquittal in NYC, in another politically motivated Bragg trial, should be welcomed by anyone who wishes to see good deeds go unpunished. —Bradley Gitz, arkansasonline.com, 23 Dec. 2024

First, in January 2022, Josh's lawyer filed for an acquittal, which was rejected. —Tim Ryan, Newsweek, 18 Dec. 2024

Attorneys for two former Memphis police officers convicted of obstruction in the beating death of Tyre Nichols filed motions for acquittal on Friday, both arguing that the government failed to prove the charge during the federal trial. —Deena Zaru, ABC News, 14 Oct. 2024

Word History

Etymology

Middle English acquitaille, acquytall "release, discharge, conduct," borrowed from Anglo-French acquitel, acquitaill, from aquiter "to acquit" + -el, -aill -al entry 2

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

acquittal

noun

ac·​quit·​tal ə-ˈkwit-ᵊl 

: the freeing (as by verdict) of a person from the charge of a crime

Legal Definition

acquittal

noun

ac·​quit·​tal ə-ˈkwit-ᵊl 

1

: release or discharge from debt or other liability

2

: a setting free or deliverance from the charge of an offense by verdict of a jury, judgment of a court, or other legal process see also implied acquittal, judgment of acquittal at judgment sense 1a compare conviction