What does the term "defendant" mean in a court case?

In legal terminology, the term "defendant" refers specifically to the party who is being accused or sued in a court case. This individual or organization faces allegations brought against them by a plaintiff in a civil case or by the prosecution in a criminal case. The defendant has the right to defend themselves against the charges or claims made and is central to the legal proceedings as they respond to the accusations.

In contrast, the plaintiff is the party that initiates the case, seeking relief or damages, while the court serves as the venue for the legal proceedings and does not represent either party. Additionally, the role of the attorney, whether representing the state or the defendant, is to advocate for their client's interests within the framework of the law, but they do not define the parties involved in terms of "defendant" or "plaintiff." Thus, identifying "defendant" as the party being accused or sued accurately captures its legal meaning and role in court cases.