Definition of "bail"
- noun
Security, usually a sum of money, exchanged for the release of an arrested person as a guarantee of that person's appearance for trial.
Release from imprisonment on payment of such money.
The person providing such payment.
A bucket or scoop used for removing water from a boat etc.
A hoop, ring or handle (especially of a kettle or bucket).
A stall for a cow (or other animal) (usually tethered with a semi-circular hoop).
A hinged bar as a restraint for animals, or on a typewriter.
A frame to restrain a cow during milking.
A hoop, ring, or other object used to connect a pendant to a necklace.
One of the two wooden crosspieces that rest on top of the stumps to form a wicket.
Normally curved handle suspended between sockets as a drawer pull. This may also be on a kettle or pail, as the wire bail handle shown in the drawing.
- verb
To secure the release of an arrested person by providing bail.
To release a person under such guarantee.
To set free.
To hand over personal property to be held temporarily by another as a bailment.
To remove water from a boat by scooping it out.
To exit quickly.
To fail to meet a commitment.
To secure the head of a cow during milking.
To confine.
To secure (a cow) by placing its head in a bail for milking.
To keep (a traveller) detained in order to rob them; to corner (a wild animal); loosely, to detain, hold up. (Usually with up.).
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