circumstantial evidence

noun

: evidence that tends to prove a fact by proving other events or circumstances which afford a basis for a reasonable inference of the occurrence of the fact at issue

Examples of circumstantial evidence in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
What was the evidence against Wood? Wood’s conviction was based mainly on circumstantial evidence. Amanda Lee Myers, USA TODAY, 5 Mar. 2025 Likewise, there is strong circumstantial evidence, but no proof, that the virus causing COVID-19 was the result of lab manipulation. Cory Franklin, Chicago Tribune, 3 Feb. 2025 Despite substantial evidence against him, including DNA evidence and circumstantial evidence, Simpson was acquitted of all criminal charges on October 3, 1995. Lea Veloso, StyleCaster, 29 Jan. 2025 Her body has not been found, making the international murder case especially challenging for FBI agents and prosecutors, who have built their case largely on circumstantial evidence. Milena Malaver, Miami Herald, 8 Feb. 2025 See All Example Sentences for circumstantial evidence

Word History

First Known Use

1736, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of circumstantial evidence was in 1736

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Cite this Entry

“Circumstantial evidence.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/circumstantial%20evidence. Accessed 12 Mar. 2025.

Legal Definition

circumstantial evidence

see evidence

More from Merriam-Webster on circumstantial evidence

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