Word of the Day, December 04: ‘Alibi’

Word of the day: ALIBI

Pronunciation: al·i·bi UK/ˈæl.ɪ.baɪ/ US/ˈæl.ɪ.baɪ/

Meaning

An alibi is a legal defence in which an accused person claims, and provides evidence, that they were somewhere else when the alleged crime took place.

Origin and History

The word comes directly from the Latin alibī, meaning "elsewhere". It is also linked to alius ("other") and ubi ("where").

Legal meaning: In a legal context, an alibi is evidence or a claim that a defendant was not at the scene of the crime because they were somewhere else at the time.

Common usage: In everyday language, it is used more broadly to mean an excuse or an explanation for not being able to do something or for avoiding blame.

The legal use of the term began in the late 18th century, when courts started recognising it as a formal defence strategy.

Cultural significance and Modern usage

Crime fiction and cinema: The idea of an alibi is central to mystery stories. From Sherlock Holmes to Agatha Christie to modern thrillers, plot twists often hinge on whether a suspect’s alibi holds up.

True crime culture: Documentaries and podcasts frequently use “Checking the alibi” has become a familiar phrase

Everyday language: People use “alibi” casually to explain excuses:

“What’s your alibi for being late?” — used humorously.

Pop culture: Even songs and dramas (like K-dramas or Indian thrillers) use the alibi theme to build tension and misdirection.

Interesting facts

In several high-profile cases worldwide, faulty alibis have led to wrongful convictions — and later overturning of those convictions when the truth emerged.

The phrase “airtight alibi” became popular in the 20th century, meaning a defence so solid that nothing can break it.

In psychology, a “fabricated alibi” is studied as a behaviour pattern — people often give too many details when lying.

In some countries, providing a false alibi can itself be treated as a crime.

Also read word of the day 

Examples from Literature

• “Unless we know exactly what time the property was stolen, and from what address, an alibi is irrelevant.”- The Hidden Gallery by Maryrose Wood
• I sent an email to the general address, asking for information about the case, about an alibi witness.- From the Desk of Zoe Washington by Janae Marks

Synonyms

• Justification
• Excuse
• Reason

Antonyms

• Denial
• Question
• Request

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