Arraign/əˈreɪn/ Definition 1 of 2Pro Tip 1/3Courtroom Setting The term 'arraign' typically takes place in a formal courtroom environment. The defendant was arraigned before a silent courtroom. Pro Tip 2/3Legal Process 'Arraign' marks the start of the legal process where charges are presented. Upon being arraigned, the charges against him were read aloud. Pro Tip 3/3Not a Conviction 'Arraign' does not mean the person is convicted, only accused formally in court. He was arraigned last week, but the trial hasn't started yet.