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

Reed, who appeared emotional throughout the proceedings, wept in the dock as the sentence was read out.

From BBC ● Sep. 4, 2026

On Friday, they sat silently in the dock as the judges returned their verdict.

From Barron's ● Aug. 21, 2026

Kerry, from Rotherham, appeared emotionless in the dock and spoke only to confirm his name, date of birth and address during the short hearing at Westminster Magistrates' Court.

From BBC ● Jul. 21, 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

A policeman is sitting in the dock, below the judge’s chair.

From "Ghost Boys" by Jewell Parker Rhodes