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

The cats and dogs were found as a part of a morning search warrant served by Los Angeles County Department of Animal Care and Control Friday morning.

From Los Angeles Times

Byers’ mother, Gilda, told police her son had been “suffering from terminal cancer and acting irrationally” in the days leading up to the shooting, according to the search warrant affidavit.

From Los Angeles Times

Officers also carried out search warrants in Wales, Somerset, London and Surrey last week.

From BBC

Three additional patients were rescued Tuesday during the search warrant operation, bringing the total to 10 rescued seniors.

From Los Angeles Times

Martin Shipton, associate editor for Nation.Cymru, confirmed police forced entry into his house in Cardiff on Wednesday, and served him with a search warrant.

From BBC

Related Words

• summons