true threat

noun

: a threat that a reasonable person would interpret as a real and serious communication of an intent to inflict harm

Note: True threats are not protected as free speech by the First Amendment to the U.S. Constitution and render the person making the threat liable to criminal prosecution.

Dictionary Entries Near true threat

Cite this Entry

“True threat.” Merriam-Webster.com Legal Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/legal/true%20threat. Accessed 5 Oct. 2024.

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