forensic

[fuh-ren-sik, -zik]

adjective

1. relating to, connected with, or used in courts of law, especially with reference to the scientific analysis of evidence.

   The defense called a professional witness with credentials in forensic toxicology.

2. relating, adapted, or suited to argumentation or to public discussion and debate; rhetorical.

   The Athenians were famous for their forensic eloquence in the public forum.

noun

1. forensics.

forensic

/ fəˈrɛnsɪk, fəˌrɛnsɪˈkælɪtɪ /

adjective

1. relating to, used in, or connected with a court of law

   forensic science

Other Word Forms

• forensically adverb
• forensicality noun
• nonforensic adjective
• nonforensically adverb
• unforensic adjective
• unforensically adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of forensic¹

First recorded in 1650–60; from Latin forēns(is) “public,” literally, “of the forum” (from for(um) forum + -ēnsis -ensis ) + -ic ( def. )

Word History and Origins

Origin of forensic¹

C17: from Latin forēnsis public, from _forum

Example Sentences

There have been some eyebrows raised about revealing so much to a Hollywood actor rather than a more forensic interviewer.

From BBC

The child welfare department said since Noah’s death they’ve hired thousands of social workers to decrease caseloads and retrained social workers on interviewing techniques and use of forensic exams.

From Los Angeles Times

Authorities praised the persistence of investigators and the role of advanced forensic science in finally solving one of Austin’s most infamous crimes.

From Salon

The bodies remain at the scene and the location has been preserved for forensic examination.

From BBC

Lastly, there’s Capt. Mike Bornman, who has decades of experience in the department and lists a “comprehensive forensic audit” of its books as the top priority on his campaign website.

From Los Angeles Times