Definition of "acquittal" in English

noun

1. (now rare) The act of fulfilling the duties (of a given role, obligation etc.).

2. (law) A legal decision that someone is not guilty with which they have been charged, or the formal dismissal of a charge by some other legal process.

   • criminal acquittal
   • absolute acquittal
   • The jury returned a verdict of acquittal.
   • His unexpected acquittal shocked the public.

3. Payment of a debt or other obligation; reparations, amends.

4. (historical) The act of releasing someone from debt or other obligation; acquittance.

5. (rare) Avoidance of danger; deliverance.