The temporary release of an accused person awaiting trial, sometimes on condition that a sum of money is lodged to guarantee their appearance in court.

The judge set the bail at $5,000, allowing the defendant to go home until the trial date.

A sum of money used as a security deposit to ensure that an accused person returns for their trial.

He paid the bail to secure his brother's release from jail.

A bar or handle used for lifting, such as on a bucket or a kettle.

She grabbed the bail of the bucket to carry water from the well.

A curved support on a ship's deck for holding a boom or spar.

The sailor adjusted the bail to secure the boom in place.

Either of the two small wooden cross-pieces that sit on top of the stumps to form a cricket wicket.

The bowler’s delivery sent both bails flying.

A loop or ring at the top of a pendant or other piece of jewellery through which a chain or cord passes.

The necklace’s bail was large enough to slide onto a thicker chain.

bailverb

To remove water from a boat by scooping it out.

We had to bail the water out of the boat to prevent it from sinking.

To release someone from jail by providing bail money.

His family decided to bail him out after he was arrested.

To abandon a situation or activity, often abruptly.

She decided to bail on the meeting because she had a prior commitment.

bailadjektiv

Relating to, involving, or used for bail in the legal sense.

The defendant attended a bail hearing the following morning.