alleged
UK: əˈlɛdʒd | US: əˈlɛdʒd
adj. claimed or stated to be true without proof
adj. accused but not yet proven guilty
The word "alleged" traces back to Latin allegare (to send for, claim), combining ad- (to) and legare (to depute, send). In medieval legal contexts, it evolved to mean "to cite as proof." By the 15th century, English adopted it via Old French, emphasizing claims made without evidence. The suffix -ed solidified its role as an adjective describing unverified assertions.
The alleged thief was released due to lack of evidence.
She denied the alleged misconduct during the interview.
The alleged benefits of the product were later disproven.
The report focused on the alleged corruption in the department.
His alleged involvement in the scandal remains unconfirmed.