The act or process of erasing, removing, or destroying something completely, especially legal records or written information.
From 'expunge' + '-ment' (forming abstract nouns from verbs). The term gained prominence in American legal contexts starting in the 20th century to describe the removal of criminal records.
'Expungement' is one of those legal terms that became central to criminal justice reform—it offers the possibility of literally erasing a person's record, making it crucial vocabulary for those seeking fresh starts and for lawyers arguing second-chance policies.
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