indict

Upper-Intermediate (B2)

IPA: /ɪnˈdaɪt/

KK: /ɪnˈdaɪt/

transitive verb

Definition

To formally accuse someone of a crime, usually through a legal process involving a jury.

Example

The grand jury decided to indict the suspect after reviewing the evidence.

Tense Forms

Past: indicted

Past Participle: indicted

Conversation

Did you hear they might indict that politician for corruption?

Yeah, I read something about it; it's about time something was done.

I know, right? It's crazy how long they've let this go on without action.

Exactly! It's important to hold people accountable for their actions.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

accuse

charge

blame

Antonyms

exonerate

absolve

vindicate

Root Explanation

Indict is formed from "in-" (meaning in or into) and "dicere" (meaning to say or declare). The word originally refers to the act of formally declaring or stating that someone is charged with a crime.

Memory Tip

Think of someone 'declaring' ('dicere') a charge 'against' ('in-') another person — that's why indict means to formally accuse someone.

Visually Confused Words

reindict

induct