search warrant

American  

noun

Law.

1. a court order authorizing the examination of a dwelling or other private premises by police officials, as for stolen goods.

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search warrant British  

noun

1. a written order issued by a justice of the peace authorizing a constable or other officer to enter and search premises for stolen goods, drugs, etc

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Etymology

Origin of search warrant

First recorded in 1730–40

Example Sentences

A search warrant was also served at the couple’s home and storage units in San Clemente, according to the statement.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 6, 2026

The commission heard how both officials entered the premises of a logistics company in the east of Johannesburg without a search warrant.

From BBC • May 30, 2026

San Luis Obispo County sheriff’s deputies joined by soil scientists and ground radar experts and armed with a search warrant have been at the Arroyo Grande home of Susan Flores since Wednesday.

From Los Angeles Times • May 9, 2026

District Judge Jean-Paul Boulee declared on Wednesday that Fulton County did not sufficiently prove that the FBI acted with “callous disregard” when it secured a search warrant to execute its January raid.

From Slate • May 8, 2026

"I said, come back with a search warrant, you want to see what I keep under my bed, but I let 'em have a good look from the door, satisfy 'em you weren't there."

From "Freak The Mighty" by Rodman Philbrick

Related Words

• summons