compurgation

 
Pronunciation: /ˌkɒmpəːˈgeɪʃ(ə)n/

noun

[mass noun] Law, historical
  • acquittal from a charge or accusation obtained by statements of innocence given by witnesses under oath.

Origin:

mid 17th century: from medieval Latin compurgatio(n-), from Latin compurgare, from com- (expressing intensive force) + purgare 'purify' (from purus 'pure')