alibi
UK: ˈæl.ɪ.baɪ | US: ˈæl.ə.baɪ
n. 1. A claim or evidence that one was elsewhere when an act, typically a crime, was committed.
n. 2. (Informal) An excuse or justification for a failure or mistake.
alibi = ali<other> + bi<place>
- ali<other>: From Latin alius ("other").
- bi<place>: From Latin ubi ("where"), later reinterpreted as -bi in legal Latin.
Etymology Origin:
The word alibi originates from Latin legal terminology, where alibi literally meant "elsewhere." It was used in court contexts to assert that the accused was "in another place" during the crime. Over time, it broadened to mean any excuse or justification, reflecting its logical progression from a legal defense to general usage.
The suspect provided a solid alibi, proving he was at a conference during the robbery.
Her alibi was corroborated by security footage.
He couldn’t think of a good alibi for missing the meeting.
The lawyer dismantled the defendant’s shaky alibi.
"I forgot" is not an acceptable alibi for failing to submit your work on time.