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

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.)