in the dock

Idioms  

1. On trial, especially in a criminal case. For example, The accused stood in the dock through the entire proceeding. This expression employs dock in the sense of “an enclosed place for the defendant in a court of law,” a usage dating from the late 1500s, and is used even in American courts where no such enclosure exists.

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Example Sentences

See Examples For:

in the dock

Cordina appeared in the dock alongside Jamie O'Brien, 32, from Pentwyn, who has also been charged with assault in connection with the incident.

From BBC ● Jul. 28, 2026

The women, more liberal-minded, think it’s ridiculous to put a novel in the dock.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Jul. 9, 2026

Kaur appeared visibly upset in the dock as the verdict was read out, while Digwa showed little emotion and gazed out into the courtroom.

From BBC ● May 28, 2026

Chow, a lawyer who is representing herself, smiled at supporters who waved enthusiastically from the public gallery as the hearing began, while Lee sat quietly in the dock taking notes with a ballpoint pen.

From Barron's ● May 18, 2026

He let it shine for a few moments in the dock light before he slid it back into its scabbard.

From "The Reader" by Traci Chee