English Lexicon

Burglary

/ˈbɜːrɡləri/
nounCEFR B2 (Upper)Top #1500 frequency
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Comprehensive Definitions & Senses

2 senses
As noun
  1. 1

    The unlawful entry into a building or property with the intent to commit a crime, typically theft.

    "The police reported a rise in burglary incidents in the neighborhood last year."
  2. 2

    The act of breaking and entering into a property with the intent to commit a crime.

    "He was charged with burglary after being caught inside the store after hours."

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Antonyms & Contrasting Words (1)

Linguistic Origin & Historical Etymology

The term 'burglary' originates from the Middle English word 'burglarie', which is derived from the Old French 'burglar', meaning 'thief'. The word evolved in the late 15th century to specifically denote the act of breaking into a building with the intent to commit a crime, particularly theft.

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