peremptory challenge

noun

: a challenge (as of a juror) made as of right without assigning any cause

Examples of peremptory challenge in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web Using what are known as peremptory challenges, lawyers can strike a certain number of prospective jurors without necessarily having to provide a reason. Tim Arango, New York Times, 13 May 2024 This time around, each side will have less opportunity to dismiss potential jurors because both used six of their 10 peremptory challenges earlier this week. Elizabeth Robinson, NBC News, 18 Apr. 2024 The attorneys will also select up to six alternate jurors, and the two sides will receive five more peremptory challenges during that process. Graham Kates, CBS News, 18 Apr. 2024 For a criminal trial involving class E felonies, which are what Trump is being charged with, 10 peremptory challenges per side fits the state guidelines. Kyler Alvord, Peoplemag, 17 Apr. 2024 See all Example Sentences for peremptory challenge 

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'peremptory challenge.' 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

1530, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of peremptory challenge was in 1530

Dictionary Entries Near peremptory challenge

Cite this Entry

“Peremptory challenge.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/peremptory%20challenge. Accessed 26 Jul. 2024.

Legal Definition

peremptory challenge

see challenge

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