The word "bail" has several meanings depending on the context:
1. Legal context (most common):
• Bail is money or property given to a court to ensure that someone who has been arrested will return for their trial.
o Example: “He was released on bail while awaiting trial.”
2. Slang/informal use:
• To bail (on something or someone) means to leave suddenly or to abandon a person or situation.
o Example: “He bailed on the party early.”
o Example: “She bailed on our plans at the last minute.”
3. Agricultural or nautical (less common):
• To bail (water) means to remove water from a boat using a container.
o Example: “We had to bail water out of the boat during the storm.

Bail is a legal process that allows a person accused of a crime to be temporarily released from custody while awaiting trial, usually under certain conditions. It often involves a monetary guarantee or bond paid to the court to ensure that the accused returns for future court proceedings.
If the accused appears as required, the bail amount is typically returned. If they fail to appear, the bail may be forfeited, and a warrant for arrest may be issued.
Bail is intended to balance two goals:
Ensuring the accused's presence in court.
Respecting the principle that a person is presumed innocent until proven guilty.