forensics

fo-ren-sics · noun

imported

Definitions

noun

  1. 1.

    The application of scientific methods and techniques to the investigation of crime.

  2. 2.

    A department or laboratory that performs forensic analysis.

  3. 3.

    (Academic) The art or study of formal debate and argumentation.

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    digital forensics — investigation of computer-related crimes
  • •
    forensics team — group performing criminal investigation
  • •
    forensics lab — laboratory for crime scene analysis

Related words

See also: evidence, forensic, investigation
Synonyms: criminalistics, forensic_science

Etymology

From Latin forensis ("of a forum, public"), from forum. The term evolved from its original meaning of public debate to include scientific crime investigation in the 20th century.