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Carjack: meaning, definitions and examples

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carjack

 

[ˈkɑrˌdʒæk ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

theft situation

To carjack means to steal a vehicle from its owner, usually through the use of force or intimidation. This crime involves either forcibly removing the driver and taking the car or threatening them to hand over their keys. Carjacking is often performed at gunpoint or with the threat of violence, and it typically occurs in public places or when a vehicle is stopped at traffic lights. The act of carjacking can lead to serious legal consequences and is considered a violent crime in many jurisdictions.

Synonyms

auto theft, car theft, vehicle theft.

Examples of usage

  • The suspect attempted to carjack a vehicle at the intersection.
  • She was traumatized after being carjacked in broad daylight.
  • Carjacking incidents have increased in urban areas.
  • Police are warning residents to be vigilant against carjackers.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The term originated in the 1990s, combining 'car' and 'hijack', referring specifically to stealing vehicles.
  • Etymological roots include 'hijack', which comes from earlier meanings of taking control or theft.
  • The concept of car theft has been documented for over a century, reflecting a growing concern as cars became more common.

Law Enforcement

  • Carjacking is treated as a serious crime in many jurisdictions and can carry heavy penalties.
  • Police often respond quickly to carjacking incidents, as they may pose immediate dangers to victims.
  • In many areas, law enforcement collaborates with auto manufacturers to track stolen vehicles more effectively.

Pop Culture

  • Carjacking themes are often explored in movies and TV shows, highlighting the thrill and danger of high-speed chases.
  • Video games have also depicted carjackings, sometimes making it a central theme in action and adventure genres.
  • Songs and literature occasionally reference carjacking as a reflection of societal issues related to crime.

Statistics

  • Data shows that urban areas have higher instances of carjacking compared to rural zones.
  • Certain car models are more frequently targeted, often due to easier theft methods or market demand for parts.
  • Carjackings often peak during specific times, notably late at night or during events where crowds gather.

Prevention

  • Many vehicle manufacturers now provide anti-theft technologies to deter potential carjackers.
  • Awareness programs educate the public on safety measures to avoid carjacking incidents.
  • Community involvement is vital in crime prevention, with neighborhood watch groups helping to deter carjackings.

Translations

Translations of the word "carjack" in other languages:

🇵🇹 sequestro de carro

🇮🇳 कार चोरी

🇩🇪 Autodiebstahl

🇮🇩 pencurian mobil

🇺🇦 угон автомобіля

🇵🇱 kradzież samochodu

🇯🇵 車の強奪

🇫🇷 vol de voiture

🇪🇸 robo de coche

🇹🇷 araba soygunu

🇰🇷 차량 절도

🇸🇦 سرقة سيارة

🇨🇿 krádež auta

🇸🇰 krádež auta

🇨🇳 劫车

🇸🇮 rop avtomobila

🇮🇸 bílastur

🇰🇿 автокөлік ұрлау

🇬🇪 ავტოსატვირთავი

🇦🇿 maşın oğurluğu

🇲🇽 robo de auto

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #43,249, this word is among the least frequently used in common English. Understanding it can be beneficial for comprehensive language mastery, but it's not essential for most learners.