Burgled Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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burgled
[หbษrษกษld ]
Definition
criminal act
Burgled refers to the act of breaking into a building or property with the intent to commit theft. This illegal activity involves the unlawful entry into someone else's premises, typically during the night or when the occupants are away. The term often connotes a sense of violation and loss, as the victims may not only suffer from financial loss but also from emotional distress. Burgling can involve a variety of methods, including picking locks, breaking windows, or using force to gain entry.
Synonyms
looted, plundered, raided, robbed, searched.
Examples of usage
- They burgled the house while the family was on vacation.
- The store was burgled last night.
- He was arrested for burgling several cars in the neighborhood.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Crime Statistics
- Burglaries are one of the most reported crimes, with homes being the primary target.
- A significant portion of burglaries occurs during the day when people are typically at work or school.
- Properties without security systems are much more likely to be burgled than those that are monitored.
Cultural References
- The act of burglary has been depicted in countless movies, often romanticizing or dramatizing the crime.
- In literature, many classic stories feature burglars as anti-heroes, presenting moral dilemmas around theft.
- One notable character, the gentleman thief Arsรจne Lupin, has become a cultural icon representing cunning and charm.
Legal Aspects
- In many jurisdictions, burglary is defined as entering a building illegally with the intent to commit a crime, often theft.
- Punishments for burglary can vary significantly, from fines to several years in prison, depending on the severity.
- Burglary laws were established to protect property and ensure that offenders face consequences for their actions.
Prevention Techniques
- Installing security cameras and alarms can deter potential burglars and reduce crime rates in neighborhoods.
- Neighborhood watch programs often involve community members looking out for each other to prevent break-ins.
- Simple measures like locking doors and windows can significantly decrease the likelihood of a burglary.
Origin of 'burgled'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'burgle' originated in British English in the 19th century as slang, derived from 'burglary'.
- It is believed to be a blend of 'burglar' and the suffix 'gle', which indicates action.
- This term is often used in UK English, while in American English 'burglarized' is the more common form.
The term 'burgled' is derived from the word 'burglar,' which itself comes from the Middle English word 'burglar,' appearing in the late 14th century. The origin is traced further back to the Latin term 'burgus,' meaning 'a fortified place.' It reflects a historical context where fortified areas were more prone to attacks or theft. The word 'burgle' began to be used in the English language around the late 19th century. Over time, it has evolved to specifically denote the act of entering a dwelling with the intent to commit theft. The modern usage emphasizes the legality and severity of the action, highlighting issues of safety and personal space in contemporary society. As crime rates associated with burglary have fluctuated throughout history, so too has the language surrounding it, adapting to encompass new methods and technologies involved in both the act and the prevention of burglary.