grand jury

American  

noun

1. a jury, at common law, of 12 to 23 persons, designated to inquire into alleged violations of the law in order to ascertain whether the evidence is sufficient to warrant trial.

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grand jury British  

noun

1. law (esp in the US and, now rarely, in Canada) a jury of between 12 and 23 persons summoned to inquire into accusations of crime and ascertain whether the evidence is adequate to found an indictment. Abolished in Britain in 1948 Compare petit jury

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grand jury Cultural  

1. A jury that decides whether the evidence warrants bringing an accused person to trial. Once indicted (see indictment) by a grand jury, a person must stand trial.

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Etymology

Origin of grand jury

First recorded in 1490–1500, grand jury is from Anglo-French graund juree

Example Sentences

In mid-March, Tamasi testified before the state grand jury, according to people familiar with the matter.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 5, 2026

In 2019 and 2024, a Shasta County grand jury investigated local election procedures and found no wrongdoing.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 25, 2026

Prosecutors said that testimony may have contained discrepancies, opened a grand jury investigation in late 2025, and sent subpoenas in January.

From Barron's • Mar. 18, 2026

That battle took place out of public view because of secrecy rules that apply to criminal investigations pending before a grand jury.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 13, 2026

Ms. Ofrah arranged for me to do an interview with one of the national news programs today—exactly a week before I testify before the grand jury next Monday.

From "The Hate U Give" by Angie Thomas