search warrant

noun

Law.

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

search warrant

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

Word History and Origins

Origin of search warrant¹

First recorded in 1730–40

Example Sentences

Late on Wednesday, police denied reports that Chakwera had been arrested but confirmed securing a search warrant for his residence after information suggested the stolen dogs were being kept there.

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“They claimed they were from the Los Angeles Police Department and they were executing a search warrant.”

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When police served a search warrant on the house in February, they found 26 assault-style rifles in one of the bedrooms, he said.

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In a joint operation between the FBI and Chilean police, authorities served search warrants at the homes of suspected theft ring members and recovered property belonging to Reeves and another person.

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Police obtained a search warrant and arrested Rodriguez early on Nov. 11.

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Related Words

• summons