defendant

Definitions

de- (away) + fend (strike) + -ant (one who) = literally 'the one who must strike the attack away.' In a lawsuit the defendant is the party under attack — sued or accused — and so the one who has to mount a defense. Contrast the plaintiff, who strikes first by bringing the case.

Common Collocations

• 1.the defendant pleaded被告辩称
• 2.convict the defendant判被告有罪
• 3.the defendant's lawyer被告的律师
• 4.acquit the defendant宣判被告无罪

Example Sentences

• 1.

  The defendant pleaded not guilty to all charges.

• 2.

  The jury found the defendant guilty after three days.

• 3.

  Lawyers for the defendant asked for the case to be dismissed.

Easily Confused

defendant vs plaintiff — In a civil case these are the two opposing parties. The plaintiff brings the lawsuit (strikes first); the defendant is the one being sued and must defend. In a criminal case the defendant is also called 'the accused.' Memory hook: defend-ANT = the one fending off the charge.