criminalistics

noun

crim·​i·​nal·​is·​tics ˌkri-mə-nə-ˈli-stiks How to pronounce criminalistics (audio)
ˌkrim-nə-ˈli-
plural in form but singular in construction
: application of scientific techniques in collecting and analyzing physical evidence in criminal cases

Examples of criminalistics in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web Besides a degree in criminalistics, Badaracco also has training in culinary arts and nutrition, and has worked f or organizations including Mintel, the USDA, and Nestle. Joseph Calamia, Discover Magazine, 9 Aug. 2010 Hatten is still employed by the Las Vegas police department, assigned to the criminalistics bureau, which includes crime scene investigations, the Review-Journal reported. Fox News, 29 Dec. 2021

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'criminalistics.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

1910, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of criminalistics was in 1910

Dictionary Entries Near criminalistics

Cite this Entry

“Criminalistics.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/criminalistics. Accessed 28 Mar. 2024.

Legal Definition

criminalistics

noun plural but singular in construction
crim·​i·​nal·​is·​tics ˌkri-mə-nə-ˈlis-tiks How to pronounce criminalistics (audio)
: application of scientific techniques in collecting and analyzing physical evidence in criminal cases
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