compurgation

noun

com·​pur·​ga·​tion ˌkäm-(ˌ)pər-ˈgā-shən How to pronounce compurgation (audio)
: the clearing of an accused person by oaths of others who swear to the veracity or innocence of the accused

Word History

Etymology

Late Latin compurgation-, compurgatio, from Latin compurgare to clear completely, from com- + purgare to purge

First Known Use

circa 1658, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of compurgation was circa 1658

Dictionary Entries Near compurgation

Cite this Entry

“Compurgation.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/compurgation. Accessed 30 Nov. 2024.

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