What does the term "verbatim" refer to in court reporting?

The term "verbatim" in court reporting specifically refers to a word-for-word recording of everything that is spoken during a legal proceeding. This means that every word, including pauses, filler words, and any other elements of speech, is captured exactly as it is said, without any alterations or paraphrasing. This complete and accurate transcription is crucial in legal contexts where the integrity of the record is essential for appeals, evidence, and the overall justice process.

In contrast, the other terms imply a level of interpretation or condensation. For example, a summary compresses information into its essential points, an edited version may omit parts or rephrase for clarity, and a paraphrased account alters the original wording, all of which do not fit the strict definition of "verbatim." Thus, the correct choice clearly aligns with the requirement for an exact and unaltered representation of spoken words in court reporting.