search warrant

noun

: a warrant authorizing a search (as of a house) for stolen goods or unlawful possessions

Examples of search warrant in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Authorities executed a search warrant at Jamescupp’s residence on March 28, 2024, where Jamescupp admitted to viewing child pornography on his phone, according to the plea document. Caroline Zimmerman, Kansas City Star, 6 Aug. 2026 After identifying Lahey as the suspect, police obtained a search warrant for his home in the 13200 block of Maverick Trail in Homer Glen. Todd Feurer, CBS News, 6 Aug. 2026 Detectives carried out multiple search warrants and were assisted by Homeland Security Investigations. Justin Muszynski, Hartford Courant, 5 Aug. 2026 Cops executing a search warrant Tuesday morning found a firearm in the family’s apartment, officials said. Emma Seiwell, New York Daily News, 5 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for search warrant

Word History

First Known Use

1739, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of search warrant was in 1739

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Search warrant.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/search%20warrant. Accessed 10 Aug. 2026.

Kids Definition

search warrant

noun
: a warrant making legal a search of a specified place (as a house) for stolen goods or unlawful possessions (as illegal drugs)

Legal Definition

search warrant

see also:
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!