Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

larceny

noun

/ˈlɑːrsəni/

Definition

The unlawful taking of someone else’s personal property with the intent to permanently deprive them of it.

Examples

The man was charged with larceny after he was caught stealing a bicycle from the park.
In some jurisdictions, larceny can be considered a felony if the value of the stolen items exceeds a certain amount.
She was accused of larceny when she took items from the store without paying.

Meaning

Larceny is often associated with theft, but it specifically refers to the act of stealing that involves taking someone else’s property without their consent and with the intention of keeping it.