Crim"i*nal (kr?m"?-nal), a. [L. criminalis, fr. crimen: cf. F. criminel. See Crime.]

1.

Guilty of crime or sin.

The neglect of any of the relative duties renders us criminal in the sight of God. Rogers.

2.

Involving a crime; of the nature of a crime; -- said of an act or of conduct; as, criminal carelessness.

Foppish and fantastic ornaments are only indications of vice, not criminal in themselves. Addison.

3.

Relating to crime; -- opposed to civil; as, the criminal code.

The officers and servants of the crown, violating the personal liberty, or other right of the subject . . . were in some cases liable to criminal process. Hallam.

Criminal action Law, an action or suit instituted to secure conviction and punishment for a crime. -- Criminal conversation Law, unlawful intercourse with a married woman; adultery; -- usually abbreviated, crim. con. -- Criminal law, the law which relates to crimes.

 

© Webster 1913.


Crim"i*nal, n.

One who has commited a crime; especially, one who is found guilty by verdict, confession, or proof; a malefactor; a felon.

 

© Webster 1913.