Felonious Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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felonious
[fəˈloʊniəs ]
Definition
criminal behavior
Involving or constituting a felony; wicked; evil.
Synonyms
criminal, illegal, immoral, unlawful.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| felonious |
This word is often used in legal contexts to describe serious crimes, sometimes violent ones, that are punishable by severe penalties.
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| criminal |
Generally used to describe activities or individuals involved in breaking the law, from minor offenses to serious crimes. It can also refer to the behavior that is against the law.
|
| illegal |
Used to describe actions or things that are against the law, often referring to specific violations like illegal activities or substances. It carries a more neutral tone compared to 'criminal'.
|
| unlawful |
Used similarly to 'illegal', this word often appears in more formal contexts, particularly legal documents or discussions. It can refer to actions or practices that are not permitted by law.
|
| immoral |
Describes actions or behavior that go against moral or ethical standards, not necessarily against the law but considered wrong by society.
|
Examples of usage
- The suspect was charged with felonious assault.
- The felonious act was caught on camera.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Legal System
- Felonious behavior is typically categorized as a serious crime that can lead to imprisonment for over a year, unlike misdemeanors which are less severe.
- Certain felonies can result in significant penalties, including life sentences, depending on the nature of the crime.
Psychology
- Research shows that individuals who commit felonious acts might share certain psychological traits, such as impulsivity and a lack of empathy.
- Environmental factors, like poverty or exposure to violence, can increase the likelihood of someone engaging in felonious activities.
Pop Culture
- Films and books often explore the lives of individuals engaging in felonious behavior, providing a narrative that highlights moral dilemmas and societal impacts.
- Popular shows like 'Breaking Bad' delve into the felonious transformation of everyday characters, showcasing how circumstances can lead to crime.
Historical Context
- In the 14th century, laws surrounding felonious acts began to formalize, distinguishing between murder, theft, and other severe crimes.
- The definition of what constituted a 'felonious' act has evolved over time, reflecting changes in societal values and legal standards.
Origin of 'felonious'
Main points about word origin
- The term 'felonious' comes from the word 'felony', which originates from the Latin 'felonia', meaning 'wickedness' or 'evil deed'.
- The concept of felonies has roots in medieval England, where serious crimes were distinguished from lesser offenses.
The word 'felonious' originated from the Latin word 'felonius', which means 'wicked, evil'. Over time, it evolved to refer specifically to criminal behavior, especially actions that constitute a felony. The term has been used in legal contexts to describe serious crimes punishable by imprisonment for more than a year. In modern usage, 'felonious' is often associated with serious wrongdoing and illegal activities.