criminal code

American  

noun

Law.

1. the aggregate of statutory enactments pertaining to criminal offenses.

2. a systematic and integrated statement of the rules and principles pertaining to criminal offenses.

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Etymology

Origin of criminal code

First recorded in 1780–90

Example Sentences

In their letter to prosecutors, the two lawmakers argued that the gifts may have constituted an “undue advantage” under Switzerland’s criminal code.

From Salon

Earlier in March, the president said he would sign a Republican bill overturning D.C.’s revised criminal code—after signaling to House Democrats that he would oppose it.

From Slate

Following their successful effort to nullify the District of Columbia’s revised criminal code earlier this month, House Republicans set their sights on a new target: a set of modest reforms designed to increase accountability and transparency in D.C. law enforcement.

From Slate

Republicans were clearly hoping for a do-over of the criminal code debacle, forcing a difficult vote that would divide the Democratic Party and subject moderates to “soft-on-crime” smears.

From Slate

The president’s support for the criminal code nullification raised the very real possibility that he was falling back on his earlier, carceral views about criminal justice—even though police reform remains as urgently necessary as ever.

From Slate