Definition

The formal process in which a person is brought before a court to hear the charges against them and enter a plea.

Example

During the arraignment, the judge explained the charges to the defendant.

Conversation

Did you hear about the arraignment happening tomorrow?

Yeah, I read about it online; it sounds pretty serious.

I wonder what the charges are going to be at the arraignment.

Me too! I hope it gets resolved quickly.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Arraignment is formed from "arrainer" (from Old French, meaning to summon or call) and the suffix "-ment" (meaning the action or process of). The word refers to the process of calling someone to court to answer a charge.

Memory Tip

Think of being 'summoned' ('arrainer') to court for a legal process ('-ment') — that's what arraignment means.

Visually Confused Words