Frye test

noun

ˈfrī-
: a common-law rule of evidence: the results of scientific tests or procedures are admissible as evidence only when the tests or procedures have gained general acceptance in the particular field to which they belong

called also Frye rule

Note: In Daubert v. Merrell Dow Pharmaceuticals, 509 U.S. 579 (1993), the Supreme Court held that the Federal Rules of Evidence supersede the Frye test, and as a result scientific evidence (as expert testimony) needs to meet only the requirements of the Federal Rules of Evidence in order to be admissible.

Word History

Etymology

from United States v. Frye, 293 F. 1013 (1923), the case that established the rule

Dictionary Entries Near Frye test

Cite this Entry

“Frye test.” Merriam-Webster.com Legal Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/legal/Frye%20test. Accessed 22 Mar. 2023.

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