Robbing Meaning: Definition and Examples
🚨
robbing
[ˈrɒb.ɪŋ ]
Definition
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.
Interesting Facts
Historical Origins
- The word 'rob' comes from the Latin word 'robare', meaning to steal or take away.
- In the 15th century, robbing was often associated with highwaymen who would stop travelers on roads to take their valuables.
- During medieval times, robbing was seen as a serious crime, often punishable by death.
Law
- Robbing is considered a felony in many jurisdictions, which means it is a serious crime that can lead to lengthy imprisonment.
- Robbery differs from burglary; robbery involves threats to a person, whereas burglary involves entering a building with intent to commit a crime.
- Some laws categorize robbery into degrees, with first-degree robbery involving serious harm or threats of violence.
Pop Culture
- Movies like 'Ocean's Eleven' and 'Heat' glamorize robbing by portraying skilled thieves in elaborate heists.
- Robbers are common characters in literature, symbolizing rebellion against authority or societal norms.
- The image of a masked robber is a staple in cartoons, often portrayed humorously rather than realistically.
Psychology
- Research indicates that individuals who resort to robbing often face underlying economic or social pressures.
- Frustration and perceived inequality can lead some individuals to justify robbing as a means of survival.
- The thrill associated with robbing activities can sometimes create a rush comparable to addiction for certain individuals.
Technology
- The rise of digital platforms has introduced 'cyber robbing', where personal information is stolen online, sometimes referred to as identity theft.
- Advanced security systems, like facial recognition, are increasingly used to deter physical robbing in businesses and public spaces.
- Social media can unwittingly facilitate robbing by allowing potential thieves to gather information on targets.
Origin of 'robbing'
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.
- ...
- 16131 mash
- 16132 abominable
- 16133 broadcasters
- 16134 robbing
- 16135 predisposition
- 16136 timeless
- 16137 trot
- ...