Indictment \In*dict"ment\, n. [Cf. Inditement.]

1. The act of indicting, or the state of being indicted.

2. (Law) The formal statement of an offense, as framed by the prosecuting authority of the State, and found by the grand jury.

Note: To the validity of an indictment a finding by the grand jury is essential, while an information rests only on presentation by the prosecuting authority.

3. An accusation in general; a formal accusation.

Bill of indictment. See under Bill.

Source: Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913)