What does the term "frisk" refer to in a search context?

The term "frisk" in a search context specifically refers to a light pat-down of a person's outer clothing, primarily conducted to discover any concealed weapons or dangerous items. This procedure is grounded in the principle of officer safety; it allows law enforcement to ensure that they are not in immediate danger from potential weapons while interacting with a suspect.

During a frisk, the officer does not search for items such as drugs or other types of contraband; instead, the focus is on quickly identifying weapons that could pose a risk. This action is typically justified when an officer has reasonable suspicion that a person is armed and dangerous, which distinguishes it from a more thorough search or seizure.

The other options describe searches that do not align with the specific legal understanding of a "frisk." For instance, a detailed search of personal belongings involves a more extensive examination and is not limited to brief contact with the person’s outer clothing. A full-body search is also a more invasive action that requires different legal grounds. Conducting a search without probable cause deviates from the legal framework established for search and seizure, as it would not be justified under the Fourth Amendment protections against unreasonable searches. Thus, the definition of "frisk" as a light pat-down for concealed weapons is the