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

The homicide investigation by Horry County police is now under scrutiny by a special prosecutor, and a state grand jury is reviewing evidence of alleged police misconduct.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 5, 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

The film earned the grand jury prize at the Venice Film Festival.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 13, 2026

A federal judge this week quashed grand jury subpoenas targeting Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell.

From Barron's • Mar. 13, 2026

Still no decision from the grand jury, so we’re still living.

From "The Hate U Give" by Angie Thomas