conviction

noun

kuhn-VIK-shuhn/kənˈvɪk.ʃən/

Pluralconvictions

4 meanings of conviction

1
nouncountable
A strong belief that someone feels sure is true.
Like an idea you hold onto tightly and never let go.
She had a strong conviction that education changes lives.
His political convictions shaped everything he did.
Similarbelief, certainty, principle, view, opinion
Oppositedoubt
Note
2
nouncountable
A court's decision that a person is guilty of a crime.
Like an official ruling that says someone broke the law.
The conviction was overturned after new evidence appeared.
He has two convictions for theft on his record.
Similarverdict, judgment
Oppositeacquittal
Note
3
noununcountable
A feeling of being completely sure about something.
Like being so sure of something that no doubt can shake you.
He spoke with such conviction that everyone believed him.
She answered every question with quiet conviction.
Similarcertainty, confidence, assurance, certitude, sureness
Oppositedoubt, uncertainty, hesitancy
Note
4
noununcountable
The state of having been found guilty of a crime by a court.
After conviction, he was sent to prison for a year.
Conviction for the crime meant he lost his job.
Oppositeacquittal
Note

Practice

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Origin

It comes from Latin convincō, meaning "to convict." It reached English through French.