'Habeas corpus' definitions:
Definition of 'habeas corpus'
(from WordNet)
noun
A writ ordering a prisoner to be brought before a judge [syn: habeas corpus, writ of habeas corpus]
noun
The civil right to obtain a writ of habeas corpus as protection against illegal imprisonment
Definition of 'Habeas corpus'
From: GCIDE
- Habeas corpus \Ha"be*as cor"pus\ (h[=a]"b[-e]*[a^]s k[^o]r"p[u^]s). [L. you may have the body.] (Law) A writ having for its object to bring a party before a court or judge; especially, one to inquire into the cause of a person's imprisonment or detention by another, with the view to protect the right to personal liberty; also, one to bring a prisoner into court to testify in a pending trial. --Bouvier. [1913 Webster]