n.
- a formal examination of evidence in order to decide guilt in a case of criminal or civil proceedings.
- a test of performance, qualities, or suitability.
▸a sports match to test the ability of players eligible for selection to a team.
▸a test of individual ability on a motorcycle.
▸
(trials)
an event in which horses or dogs compete or perform.
- a test of a person's endurance or forbearance.
v.
(trials, trialling, trialled; US trials, trialing, trialed)
- test (something) to assess its suitability or performance.
- (of a horse or dog) compete in trials.
Phrase
- on trial
- being tried in a court of law.
- undergoing tests or scrutiny.
- trial and error
the process of experimenting with various methods until one finds the most successful.
Etymology
ME: from Anglo-Norman Fr., or from med. L. triallum.