What does suborner mean?
A suborner is a person who intentionally induces another to commit a legal wrong, most commonly by bribing a witness so that the witness gives false, misleading, or evasive testimony. The word is chiefly associated with American legal and investigative language, although its broader meaning can include anyone who corrupts or persuades another to act improperly. Unlike a general term such as liar, suborner identifies the person’s role in manipulating another person’s conduct. It is especially relevant in discussions of perjury, witness tampering, and obstruction of justice. The term is uncommon in everyday speech and is normally reserved for serious allegations, court proceedings, or reports concerning corruption.
nounA person who suborns another, especially a witness who is bribed or otherwise induced to give false or misleading testimony. The term is primarily used in legal and investigative contexts.
- One who suborns another, especially a witness bribed or induced to give false or misleading testimony.
"Defense attorneys alleged that the key witness had been a suborner whose testimony had been purchased."
"The investigation focused on the possibility that the witness had been a suborner."
"Prosecutors alleged that the defendant used an intermediary to act as a suborner."
The plural is used when referring to multiple people who have induced false testimony or otherwise corrupted legal proceedings.
"Investigators identified several alleged suborners in the case."
A suborner is not merely a false witness: the word specifically identifies someone who has helped produce false testimony through bribery or inducement.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of suborner
The word was formed in the 19th century from the English verb suborn, meaning to induce someone to commit a legal offense, especially by bribery. The verb ultimately comes from Latin subornare, a compound of sub- meaning “under” and ornare, meaning “to furnish” or “equip,” with the sense of secretly encouraging or preparing someone to act. Subornation is a related derivative, while ornate comes from the same Latin root through a different development.
How suborner is actually used
This is a specialized, chiefly American legal term. It is more accusatory and precise than simply calling someone a liar, because it implies deliberate inducement or bribery.