View example sentences, synonyms and word forms for Attainder.
Attainder
Attainder meaning
The state a prisoner entered once a death sentence (usually for treason) had been issued; the state of being stripped of all civil rights. | A stain; a state of dishonour or condemnation.
Synonyms of Attainder
Example sentences (5)
Henry VIII had two of his wives beheaded, one after a trial, the other by bill of attainder, but their executions took place in the privacy of the Tower of London.
A bill of attainder is a law by which a person is immediately convicted without trial.
Cromwell was arraigned under a bill of attainder and executed for treason and heresy on Tower Hill on 28 July 1540.
However, during the reign of James I and thereafter, impeachments became more popular, as they did not require the assent of the Crown, while bills of attainder did, thus allowing Parliament to resist royal attempts to dominate Parliament.
Lack of clear evidence for treason ruled out a trial, so Seymour was condemned instead by an Act of Attainder and beheaded on 20 March 1549.