What does arraignment mean?

Arraignment is a formal reading of a criminal charging document in the presence of the defendant. In response to arraignment, the defendant is expected to enter a plea. Acceptable pleas vary among jurisdiction but generally include peremptory (setting out reasons why a trial cannot proceed), not guilty, guilty, the Alford (I do not admit to the criminal act and I assert innocence) and nolo contendere (or no contest).

The action of arraigning someone in court