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1
: a party to legal proceedings whose true name is unknown
2
: an average man
Synonyms
Examples of John Doe in a Sentence
to John Doe the most important issues in any election are usually those that affect his wallet
Recent Examples on the Web
On Monday, Atwood pleaded not guilty to the murder of a John Doe.
—Jessica Schladebeck, New York Daily News, 19 June 2024
For now, the sheriff’s office is referring to the remains as belonging to John Doe.
—Greg Wehner, Fox News, 16 June 2024
The Maine man, identified only as John Doe, beat the huge odds and claimed the Mega Millions prize back in January 2023.
—Jessica Schladebeck, New York Daily News, 15 May 2024
They're joined by roots-punk legends John Doe & Exene Cervenka of X.
Details: 8 p.m. Saturday, May 4.
—Ed Masley, The Arizona Republic, 28 Apr. 2024
See all Example Sentences for John Doe
These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'John Doe.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
Word History
First Known Use
1593, in the meaning defined at sense 1
Dictionary Entries Near John Doe
Cite this Entry
“John Doe.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/John%20Doe. Accessed 19 Aug. 2024.
Kids Definition
John Doe
noun
: a person in legal proceedings whose true name is unknown or withheld
Legal Definition
John Doe
noun
: a party to legal proceedings (as a suspect) whose true name is unknown or withheld compare jane roe, richard roe
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