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 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

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

Sheriff’s officials confirmed a search warrant is being served.

From Los Angeles Times • May 6, 2026

A sheriff’s detective served Susan Flores with the search warrant shortly after 7 a.m., and also have access to a neighboring home where the scientists in 2023 detected the volatile organic compounds.

From Los Angeles Times • May 6, 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