Definition
The high standard of proof required in criminal cases where jurors must be convinced 'to a moral certainty' that the defendant is guilty. It's not absolute certainty, but it's pretty darn close.
Example Usage
The defense raised enough reasonable doubt about the eyewitness testimony that the jury voted to acquit.
Origin
From common law tradition requiring a high standard before criminal conviction
Fun Fact
Exactly how high the reasonable doubt bar is remains debated—courts have struggled for centuries to define it precisely without just saying 'you know it when you see it.'
Source: Criminal procedure and constitutional law
Related Terms
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See “Reasonable Doubt” in Corporate Speak, Gen-Z Slang, Pirate Speak, and more.
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