Attaints meaning

Attaints refers to the act of tainting or contaminating something, usually in the context of tarnishing one's reputation.


Attaints definitions

Word backwards stniatta
Part of speech The word "attaints" is a verb.
Syllabic division at-taints
Plural The plural of the word "attaints" is "attaints."
Total letters 8
Vogais (2) a,i
Consonants (3) t,n,s

Attaints were legal rulings in medieval English law that declared a person guilty of a serious crime without the need for a trial. This process was often used to quickly convict individuals accused of treason or other offenses against the crown. Once attainted, the individual would lose their rights and could face severe punishment, including forfeiture of property, imprisonment, or even death.

History of Attaints

The practice of attaints dates back to the early Middle Ages and was a powerful tool for the monarchy to maintain order and control over the population. In cases where the crown believed someone had committed a crime against the state, they could issue an attaint to bypass the normal legal process and swiftly punish the individual. This process was often used during times of political instability or rebellion to eliminate threats to the ruling authority.

Procedure and Consequences

Once a person was attainted, they were considered guilty without the opportunity to defend themselves in court. This presumption of guilt could lead to harsh consequences, including the confiscation of property and the loss of civil rights. In some cases, attainted individuals were subjected to public humiliation or execution as a warning to others who might challenge the authority of the crown.

Abolition of Attaints

Over time, the use of attaints fell out of favor as legal systems evolved to prioritize due process and the rights of the accused. In England, attaints were officially abolished in 1870, marking the end of this controversial practice. Today, the concept of attaints serves as a reminder of the power dynamics and challenges of justice in historical legal systems.

In conclusion, attaints were a significant aspect of medieval English law that allowed the monarchy to swiftly punish individuals accused of crimes against the state. This practice, while effective in maintaining order, raised serious concerns about fairness and justice. Ultimately, the abolition of attaints reflected a shift towards more equitable legal processes and protections for the accused.


Attaints Examples

  1. The scandal attaints the reputation of the company.
  2. Her criminal record attaints her chances of employment.
  3. The corruption within the government attaints public trust.
  4. His dishonest behavior attaints his honor and integrity.
  5. The unjust accusation attaints his innocence.
  6. The false rumors attaint the credibility of the news outlet.
  7. The unethical practices attaint the profession as a whole.
  8. The scandalous behavior attaints the family name.
  9. The controversial decision attaints the judge's impartiality.
  10. His past mistakes attaint his reputation in the community.


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  • Updated 28/06/2024 - 01:00:58