Criminate

To accuse or implicate someone in a crime or wrongdoing; to charge with a fault or crime. The term originates from the Latin 'criminare', meaning 'to accuse'. In legal contexts, crimination is often associated with the formal process of bringing accusations against an individual, which can lead to legal proceedings. The concept can also apply in informal contexts, where one party may accuse another of unethical or immoral behavior, even outside of a legal framework.

Criminate meaning with examples

• During the heated debate, John felt unfairly criminated by his opponent, who twisted his words to make him appear guilty of wrongdoing. The accusations lacked evidence and seemed to be solely aimed at discrediting him, reflecting a common tactic in political discourse where truth can become secondary to strategy.
• In the courtroom, the prosecutor aimed to criminate the defendant with a series of damaging witnesses and evidence. Each witness was meticulously chosen to present a narrative that would lead the jury to believe in the defendant's guilt, demonstrating the complexities and emotional weight of crimination in the legal process.
• While discussing office politics, Sarah was concerned that her colleague was trying to criminate her by spreading rumors about her work ethic. She felt betrayed and anxious as the stories started affecting her relationships at work, showing how crimination can have repercussions beyond just the initial accusation.
• The police investigation sought to criminate anyone associated with the crime scene, leaving many innocent individuals feeling the weight of suspicion. As details unfolded, the challenge became not only to identify the true perpetrator but also to clear the names of those unjustly implicated.