state's evidence
Americannoun
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evidence given by an accomplice in a crime who becomes a voluntary witness against the other defendants.
The defendants' case was lost when one of them turned state's evidence.
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evidence for the state, especially in criminal trials.
noun
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the evidence for the prosecution given on behalf of a state in a criminal prosecution
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Brit equivalent: king's evidence. queen's evidence. evidence given for the state by an accomplice against his former associates in crime (esp in the phrase turn state's evidence )
Etymology
Origin of state's evidence
First recorded in 1790–1800
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
They could, however, provide his defence with a glimpse into the state's evidence against him.
From BBC ● Dec. 11, 2024
The state's evidence will get stronger with each passing plea as more and more insiders share information with the state and admit wrongdoing.
From Salon ● Oct. 26, 2023
Denying the charge without knowing the state’s evidence for it puts Meadows in a precarious position if Willis has the goods.
From Los Angeles Times ● Aug. 31, 2023
Glossip’s attorneys suggest other details from witness statements that conflicted with the state’s evidence also was never disclosed to them.
From Seattle Times ● Mar. 27, 2023
Bram announced that certain parts of the state’s evidence would be conceded by the accused, and there was a buzz in the court.
From "Long Walk to Freedom" by Nelson Mandela
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
