circumstantial evidence

noun

: evidence that tends to prove a fact by proving other events or circumstances which afford a basis for a reasonable inference of the occurrence of the fact at issue

Examples of circumstantial evidence in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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Wood’s conviction was based mainly on circumstantial evidence. Alexis Simmerman, Austin American Statesman, 2 July 2025 Wood's conviction of the murders of six women and girls in 1987 was largely based on circumstantial evidence. Amanda Lee Myers, USA TODAY, 5 Mar. 2025 Scientists were finally able to identify Tennyson's remains, using dental and anthropological analysis and mitochondrial DNA analysis, as well as material and circumstantial evidence. Stephen Smith, CBS News, 25 Feb. 2025 The theory that the virus leaked from a lab is supported by solid circumstantial evidence but no definitive proof. Cory Franklin, Chicago Tribune, 3 Feb. 2025 See All Example Sentences for circumstantial evidence

Word History

First Known Use

1736, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of circumstantial evidence was in 1736

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Cite this Entry

“Circumstantial evidence.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/circumstantial%20evidence. Accessed 12 Jul. 2025.

Legal Definition

circumstantial evidence

see evidence

More from Merriam-Webster on circumstantial evidence

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