Deraignment

/dɪˈreɪnmənt/ noun

Definition

The act or process of defending oneself in court; a medieval legal defense or justification.

Etymology

From 'deraign' + '-ment' suffix. A legal term from medieval English law, referring to the formal process of defending against accusations.

Kelly Says

Medieval deraignment could be grueling—you might have to swear oaths, submit to ordeals, or fight someone with swords just to prove you didn't commit the crime!

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