peremptory challenge

noun

: a challenge (as of a juror) made as of right without assigning any cause

Examples of peremptory challenge in a Sentence

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This number would mean that, even after both sides exercise their peremptory challenges, there would be enough people remaining to form a jury. — Victoria Bekiempis, Vulture, 7 May 2025 And for decades, prosecutors have used peremptory challenges — challenges that don’t need a cause — to manipulate the makeup of juries. — Denise Amos, San Diego Union-Tribune, 31 July 2025 One important limit on the peremptory challenge is that the Constitution forbids the use of race as the basis for excluding a juror. — The Conversation, 11 Apr. 2024 The new statute aims to reduce implicit bias in jury selection and restricts peremptory challenges to prevent discrimination based on race, gender, or religion during jury selection. — Opinion Staff, Oc Register, 10 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for peremptory challenge

Word History

First Known Use

1530, in the meaning defined above

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The first known use of peremptory challenge was in 1530

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peremptory challenge

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“Peremptory challenge.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/peremptory%20challenge. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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peremptory challenge

peremptory challenge

noun

Examples of peremptory challenge in a Sentence

Word History

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

Legal Definition

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