self-incrimination
[ self-in-krim-uh-ney-shuh n, self- ]
/ ˈsɛlf ɪnˌkrɪm əˈneɪ ʃən, ˌsɛlf- /
noun
the act of incriminating oneself or exposing oneself to prosecution, especially by giving evidence or testimony.
Origin of self-incrimination
First recorded in 1920–25
Words nearby self-incrimination
self-imposed,
self-improvement,
self-inclusive,
self-incompatible,
self-incriminating,
self-incrimination,
self-induced,
self-inductance,
self-induction,
self-indulgent,
self-inflicted
Example sentences from the Web for self-incrimination
Cultural definitions for self-incrimination
self-incrimination
Being forced or coerced to testify against oneself. Self-incrimination is prohibited by the Fifth Amendment to the United States Constitution.
notes for self-incrimination
Under this principle, a person may choose (given certain restrictions) to “take the Fifth,” refusing to testify in court or before a legislative or executive committee.
notes for self-incrimination
Prohibiting self-incrimination not only helps guarantee
due process of law, but also maintains one of the basic principles of American law by putting the burden of proof on the prosecution. (
See also
Miranda decision.)