Arraign

Verb

Definition: Call or bring (someone) before a court to answer a criminal charge.

Synonyms: Prosecute, Charge, Indict

Antonyms: Exonerate, Clear, Absolve

Examples:

The suspect was arraigned on charges of robbery.
The defendant's lawyer requested a postponement of the arraignment.

Mnemonics:

"Arraign" can be associated with "arrest" as they both involve legal proceedings.

Etymology:

Origin:

Middle English (in the sense 'put into order, adjust'): from Old French araisnier, based on Latin ad- 'to' + raz 'line, order'.

Historical Usage:

The term "arraign" has been used since Middle English and has evolved from its original meaning of "putting into order" to its current legal usage.

Related Idioms:

Idiom:

"Arraign someone in absentia"

Explanation:

To arraign someone in absentia means to bring them before a court to answer criminal charges even when they are not physically present.

Misconceptions:

Misconception:

Confusing "arraign" with "arraignment"

Explanation:

The word "arraign" refers to the act of bringing someone before a court to answer criminal charges, while "arraignment" specifically refers to the formal reading of the charges in court.