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

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Cite this Entry

Style

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

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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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