The scientific application of forensic techniques, physical evidence analysis, and investigative methods to solve crimes.
From criminalist + -ics (suffix indicating a field of study or practice). Formalized in the 20th century as a distinct discipline separate from criminology.
Criminalistics is the younger, more practical cousin of criminology—while criminologists ask 'why do people commit crimes,' criminalists ask 'how do we catch them using fingerprints and DNA.'
Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.