third degree

noun

: the subjection of a prisoner to mental or physical torture to extract a confession

Word History

First Known Use

1900, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of third degree was in 1900

Dictionary Entries Near third degree

Cite this Entry

“Third degree.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/third%20degree. Accessed 31 Mar. 2023.

Kids Definition

third degree

noun
: brutal treatment of a prisoner by the police in order to get a confession

Legal Definition

third degree

noun
: the grade given to the third most serious forms of crimes
third-degree adjective
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