Burglary Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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burglary
[หbษหษกlษri ]
Definition
crime
Burglary is the act of illegally entering a building or property with the intent to commit a crime, usually theft. It is considered a serious offense in most jurisdictions.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| burglary |
Burglary refers to the unlawful entry into a building with the intent to commit a crime, especially theft. Typically used in legal and official contexts.
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| break in |
Break in is often used to describe the act of entering a building illegally, typically by force. It can be used in informal conversations and may not always specify further criminal intent.
|
| theft |
Theft is a general term for the act of stealing. It does not necessarily involve breaking into a place or using force; it simply means taking someone else's property without permission.
|
| robbery |
Robbery involves taking something of value from a person or place through force or intimidation. Often conveys a sense of violence or direct threat.
|
Examples of usage
- The police are investigating a series of burglaries in the neighborhood.
- Home security systems are designed to prevent burglaries.
- If caught, the burglar could face charges of burglary and trespassing.
- The burglars stole valuable items from the house.
- She was arrested for attempted burglary.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Legal Aspects
- Burglary typically involves illegal entry into a home or building with the intent to commit a crime, usually theft.
- Penalties for burglary vary widely by jurisdiction, with some places imposing severe sentences for repeat offenders.
- In many regions, the law distinguishes between burglary of residential and commercial properties.
Cultural References
- Burglary has been a popular theme in movies and literature, often depicted in films like 'Ocean's Eleven' or books by authors like Agatha Christie.
- The archetype of a clever thief can be found in many cultures, often portrayed heroically in folklore.
- Famous heists, such as the Great Train Robbery, have entered popular culture as quintessential burglary stories.
Psychology
- Studies show that the reasons behind burglary can range from economic necessity to thrill-seeking behavior.
- The majority of burglars are often young males, which is highlighted in various psychological studies examining youth behavior.
- Understanding burglar motives is crucial for prevention strategies and community safety initiatives.
Statistics
- In many countries, burglary constitutes a significant portion of property crimes, affecting hundreds of thousands of homes each year.
- Reported burglary rates tend to peak during the summer months when families are often on vacation.
- Technology, such as security systems and neighborhood watch programs, has been shown to diminish burglary rates in various communities.
Origin of 'burglary'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Old French term 'burglare', which means 'to break into'.
- It's believed to have roots in the Germanic word 'burg', meaning 'fortress' or 'castle', implying a sense of breaking into a stronghold.
- Used in English since the 14th century, it originally referred to a broader notion of breaking and entering.
The word 'burglary' comes from the Old English word 'burgle', which means 'to commit burglary'. The concept of burglary has been around for centuries, with laws against unauthorized entry into buildings dating back to ancient times. In modern legal systems, burglary is a well-defined crime with specific elements that must be proven for a conviction.