petty offense

noun

1

: a minor offense for which one may be tried at common law without a jury or for which there is no constitutional right to trial by jury

2

: misdemeanor

especially : one that may not be the subject of an indictment

The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

1. Expanded definitions
2. Detailed etymologies
3. Advanced search tools
4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now