What is the definition of a tort in legal terms?

A tort is defined as a civil wrong committed against a person or entity, resulting in harm or injury, for which the injured party may seek legal remedies or damages. This definition encompasses various forms of wrongful acts, including negligence, defamation, and trespass, among others. In the context of law, torts are significant because they provide a basis for individuals to claim compensation for losses incurred due to the actions of others.

The emphasis is on civil wrongs, distinguishing torts from criminal acts, which are pursued by the state and involve penalties such as imprisonment. This is why the other options do not match the definition of a tort. Breaches of contract, while also civil matters, are categorized distinctly under contract law rather than tort law. A legal agreement between two parties pertains to contract law as well, and it does not inherently involve civil wrongs. Finally, a criminal act pertains to violations of criminal law, which leads to prosecution by the state rather than a civil lawsuit for damages. Thus, the identification of a tort as a civil wrong resulting in damages is fundamental for understanding its role in legal contexts.