John Doe

noun

1
: a party to legal proceedings whose true name is unknown
2
: an average man

Examples of John Doe in a Sentence

to John Doe the most important issues in any election are usually those that affect his wallet
Recent Examples on the Web On Monday, Atwood pleaded not guilty to the murder of a John Doe. Jessica Schladebeck, New York Daily News, 19 June 2024 For now, the sheriff’s office is referring to the remains as belonging to John Doe. Greg Wehner, Fox News, 16 June 2024 The Maine man, identified only as John Doe, beat the huge odds and claimed the Mega Millions prize back in January 2023. Jessica Schladebeck, New York Daily News, 15 May 2024 They're joined by roots-punk legends John Doe & Exene Cervenka of X. Details: 8 p.m. Saturday, May 4. Ed Masley, The Arizona Republic, 28 Apr. 2024 See all Example Sentences for John Doe 

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'John Doe.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

1593, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of John Doe was in 1593

Cite this Entry

“John Doe.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/John%20Doe. Accessed 7 Jul. 2024.

Kids Definition

John Doe

noun
: a person in legal proceedings whose true name is unknown or withheld

Legal Definition

John Doe

noun
: a party to legal proceedings (as a suspect) whose true name is unknown or withheld compare jane roe, richard roe
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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