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actus reus

noun
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ac·​tus re·​us | \ ˈak-təs-ˈrē-əs, ˈäk-tu̇s-ˈrā-u̇s \

Legal Definition of actus reus

: the wrongful act that makes up the physical action of a crime — see also crime — compare mens rea

History and Etymology for actus reus

New Latin, guilty deed

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actus reus

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Cite this Entry

“Actus reus.” Merriam-Webster.com Legal Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/legal/actus%20reus. Accessed 6 Oct. 2022.

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