Larceny Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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larceny
[ˈlɑːsəni ]
Definitions
Context #1 | Noun
in law
The unlawful taking and carrying away of someone else's property with the intent to permanently deprive the owner of it.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- He was charged with larceny for stealing the jewelry from the store.
- The police caught the suspect in the act of committing larceny.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Legal Context
- In the United States, larceny is defined as the unlawful taking of someone else's property with the intent to permanently deprive them of it.
- Different jurisdictions may classify larceny into degrees, often depending on the value of the stolen item.
- Some states have merged larceny with other forms of theft, complicating legal definitions.
Historical Significance
- Larceny laws date back to ancient civilizations, with early codes like the Code of Hammurabi detailing penalties for stealing.
- In Medieval England, the crime of larceny was seriously punished, often resulting in hangings or severe fines.
- The crime's treatment in common law has influenced judicial systems worldwide.
Psychology
- Studies suggest that motivations for committing crimes like larceny can include economic need, peer pressure, or thrill-seeking.
- Research shows a link between feelings of entitlement and the likelihood of engaging in stealing behavior.
- The social impacts of larceny extend to increased mistrust within communities, affecting relationships.
Pop Culture
- Larceny is a frequent theme in movies and literature, often portrayed through clever heists or notorious thieves.
- Famous fictional characters, such as Robin Hood, challenge the notion of larceny by stealing from the rich to help the poor.
- Video games often include mechanics where players can commit larceny, allowing for role-playing as a thief or burglar.
Origin of 'larceny'
Main points about word origin
- The term comes from the Old French 'larciner', which means 'to steal'.
- Its roots can be traced back to the Latin 'larcina', meaning 'theft'.
- Related terms include 'larcinate', which means to commit theft.
The word 'larceny' has its origins in Middle English from the Anglo-French word 'larcin', which came from the Latin word 'latrocinium' meaning 'robbery'. Over time, the term evolved to specifically refer to the unlawful taking of someone else's property with the intent to deprive them of it permanently. Larceny is a common term in legal contexts to describe theft and stealing.