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Robbing: meaning, definitions and examples

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robbing

 

[ ˈrɒb.ɪŋ ]

Verb
Context #1 | Verb

criminal activity

Robbing refers to the act of taking property unlawfully from a person or place by force or intimidation. It is a criminal offense that involves threats or physical violence, making it more severe than theft, which doesn't involve such actions. Robbery can occur in various forms, including bank robbery, armed robbery, or mugging in public spaces. The consequences for robbing can be significant, often resulting in imprisonment and substantial fines. This act is considered a serious crime in most legal systems worldwide.

Synonyms

burgling, looting, plundering, thieving

Examples of usage

  • He was arrested for robbing a bank last year.
  • They attempted robbing the convenience store at gunpoint.
  • Robbing someone is punishable by law.
  • She felt scared after nearly being robbed on the street.

Word origin

The word 'robbing' originates from the Old French word 'rober', which means 'to take away'. This, in turn, derived from the Latin word 'rapere', meaning 'to seize' or 'to snatch away'. The evolution of the term reflects a long history of unlawful seizure of property, dating back to medieval times when plunder and pillage were common during territorial conquests. Over the centuries, 'robbing' became associated with crimes of violence and threat, changing societal perceptions of theft from mere lack of possession to an act involving aggression and intimidation. The usage of the term solidified in English legal contexts, where it distinguished robbery from simple theft, which does not involve personal confrontation. The increasing legal definitions and societal implications of robbery have led to a nuanced understanding of the term in contemporary language, encompassing various forms of criminal violence and the psychological impact on victims.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #16,134, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.