coroner

American  

[kawr-uh-ner, kor-] / ˈkɔr ə nər, ˈkɒr- /

noun

1. an officer, as of a county or municipality, whose chief function is to investigate by inquest, as before a jury, any death not clearly resulting from natural causes.

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coroner British  

/ ˈkɒrənə /

noun

1. a public official responsible for the investigation of violent, sudden, or suspicious deaths and inquiries into treasure trove. The investigation ( coroner's inquest ) is held in the presence of a jury ( coroner's jury ) See also procurator fiscal Compare medical examiner

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Other Word Forms

• coronership noun

Etymology

Origin of coroner

1225–75; Middle English < Anglo-French corouner supervisor of the Crown's pleas, equivalent to coroune crown + -er -er ²

Explanation

A coroner is a scientist with a grim specialty: a coroner studies dead bodies and figures out the cause of death. If you've ever watched a TV show or movie about crime, chances are you've seen a character who was a coroner. If someone dies of a heart attack, there's not much need for a coroner, because everyone knows how they died. When the circumstances are unclear or suspicious, a coroner is needed. Coroners are very helpful in solving crimes.

Example Sentences

Opening an inquest into Huntley's death, County Durham and Darlington senior coroner Jeremy Chipperfield said his further inquiry would be suspended pending criminal proceedings.

From BBC • Apr. 14, 2026

The coroner also made 23 recommendations including urging the NSW government to improve its mental health outreach services and provide short-term housing for people with mental health issues.

From BBC • Apr. 12, 2026

The state coroner would now confirm the identity of the body and cause of death, he added.

From Barron's • Mar. 30, 2026

The coroner found no evidence of any delay in administering first aid to Garg or taking him to a hospital.

From BBC • Mar. 25, 2026

We know from the coroner that Prince’s body was six foot three and 211 pounds.

From "Between the World and Me" by Ta-Nehisi Coates