verdict
UK: ˈvɜːdɪkt | US: ˈvɜːrdɪkt
n. 1. A formal decision or judgment made by a jury in a court of law.
n. 2. An opinion or conclusion about a disputed matter.
The word "verdict" originates from Anglo-Norman French verdit, based on Latin vere dictum ("truly said"). It reflects the legal tradition where a jury's decision is regarded as the "true statement" of facts. The morphemes ver- (true) and -dict (say) are preserved in modern English, emphasizing the authoritative nature of a formal judgment.
The jury reached a unanimous verdict of "not guilty."
The public awaited the judge's verdict with bated breath.
His harsh verdict on the project discouraged the team.
The verdict was overturned due to new evidence.
She accepted the critic's verdict on her novel gracefully.