bail

bail · noun

imported

Definitions

noun

  1. 1.

    Money or property given as security to ensure a prisoner's appearance in court.

  2. 2.

    The temporary release of an accused person awaiting trial.

  3. 3.

    A handle of a bucket, kettle, or similar container.

  4. 4.

    Secure the release of someone by providing bail.

  5. 5.

    Remove water from a boat using a container.

  6. 6.

    [informal]Leave or escape from a difficult situation.

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    bail out — To rescue from difficulty, especially financial; to parachute from an aircraft.
  • •
    jump bail — To fail to appear in court after being released on bail.
  • •
    post bail — To provide the required bail money.
  • •
    out on bail — Released from custody pending trial.

Related words

See also: bond, court, release, surety
Synonyms: bond, security, surety

Etymology

From Old French bail ("custody, charge"), from bailler ("to deliver, hand over"), from Latin bajulare ("to carry a burden").