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circumstantial evidence
noun
: evidence that tends to prove a fact by proving other events or circumstances which afford a basis for a reasonable inference of the occurrence of the fact at issue
Examples of circumstantial evidence in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
Given the circumstantial evidence for subglacial lakes and moist crater slopes, the researchers think the best chance for life is deep under the surface.
—Paul Sutter, Space.com, 1 Jan. 2025
However, researchers have continued to accumulate years worth of strong but circumstantial evidence pointing to a natural origin for the pandemic, most likely at the Huanan Seafood Wholesale Market in Wuhan.
—Katherine Dillinger, CNN, 2 Dec. 2024
Raymond’s main task is to show how circumstantial evidence is not enough to convict a person — that personal bias might be getting in the way of justice.
—Rafaela Bassili, Vulture, 10 July 2024
Gyllenhaal’s Rusty, stressed out and overburdened by circumstantial evidence that points at him in neon lights, is much the same.
—Vinson Cunningham, The New Yorker, 26 July 2024
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Word History
First Known Use
1736, in the meaning defined above
Time Traveler
The first known use of circumstantial evidence was
in 1736
Dictionary Entries Near circumstantial evidence
Cite this Entry
“Circumstantial evidence.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/circumstantial%20evidence. Accessed 19 Jan. 2025.
Legal Definition
circumstantial evidence
see evidence
More from Merriam-Webster on circumstantial evidence
Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about circumstantial evidence
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