Extradite

/ˈɛkstrədaɪt/ verb

Definition

To officially send a person who is accused or convicted of a crime to another country or state where they will be tried or punished.

Etymology

From Latin 'ex-' (out) and Medieval Latin 'traditio' (handing over), literally meaning 'to hand out'; developed as a legal term in the 18th century.

Kelly Says

Extradition treaties are so new in global history—most weren't standardized until the 1800s—and they reveal fascinating power dynamics: countries can refuse to extradite their own citizens, which has sheltered everyone from fugitive spies to rock star drug dealers.

Related Words

Explore More Words

Get the Word Orb API

Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.