Transgressor Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

⚖️

Add to dictionary

transgressor

[trænˈsɡresər ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

legal

A person who breaks a law or moral code; a wrongdoer.

Synonyms

delinquent, lawbreaker, offender.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
transgressor	Best used in formal or religious contexts to describe someone who has violated a law, command, or moral code. He was considered a transgressor for breaking the sacred oath. The transgressors were punished severely for their actions.
offender	This term is broadly used in both legal and everyday contexts to describe someone who has committed an offense, and it can apply to both minor and serious crimes. First-time offenders may be given more lenient sentences. The offender showed no remorse for his actions.
lawbreaker	A straightforward term often used in general and legal contexts to refer to anyone who breaks the law. The police were diligent in apprehending the lawbreaker. Lawbreakers will face the consequences of their actions.
delinquent	Commonly used to describe young people, especially teenagers, who engage in minor criminal activities or do not follow societal norms. The school established a program to help juvenile delinquents. He's been a delinquent since his early teens, often getting into trouble.

Examples of usage

He was seen as a transgressor of the company's policies.
The transgressor was brought to justice for his crimes.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

religious

Someone who violates religious or moral laws.

Synonyms

evildoer, sinner, wrongdoer.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
transgressor	This word is typically used in formal settings to describe someone who violates a law, rule, or moral code. The transgressor was brought before the council to answer for his crimes
sinner	Often used in religious contexts to describe someone who has committed a sin or moral wrongdoing. It can carry a sense of judgment. The sinner sought redemption through prayer and repentance
wrongdoer	This word is more general and can be used in both formal and informal settings to describe someone who does something wrong. It is less severe than 'evildoer'. The wrongdoer was caught and given a fair trial
evildoer	Commonly used in literary or moral contexts to describe someone who commits evil acts. It has a strong negative connotation. The hero set out on a mission to vanquish the evildoer threatening the kingdom

Examples of usage

The priest warned the congregation against being transgressors of God's commandments.
She was labeled a transgressor for her actions.

^{Context #3 | Noun}

general

A person who goes beyond the limits of what is considered acceptable.

Synonyms

maverick, nonconformist, rebel.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
transgressor	This word is best used to describe someone who breaks rules or laws. It has a negative connotation, implying wrongdoing or disobedience. The transgressor was punished for violating the school's code of conduct. He was labeled a transgressor by the authorities for his illegal activities.
rebel	This term suits someone actively resisting authority or control. It has a slightly negative connotation when used in the context of conflict, but can be viewed positively when referring to someone fighting for a cause. The young rebel was always challenging the rules set by the administration. During the protest, many rebels took to the streets demanding change.
maverick	Ideal for describing someone who thinks and acts independently, often defying norms or conventions. This term has a neutral to positive connotation, emphasizing individuality and uniqueness. She is considered a maverick in the tech industry, always innovating and challenging the status quo. His maverick approach to business has garnered both admiration and criticism.
nonconformist	Use this word to describe someone who does not conform to established customs or norms. This term is neutral and highlights a person's resistance to societal standards. As a nonconformist, he prefers to create his own path rather than follow the crowd. The artist is known for her nonconformist style, which sets her apart from traditional painters.

Examples of usage

He was seen as a transgressor of social norms.
The artist was a transgressor of traditional boundaries.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Literature

In many classic novels, transgressors often face dire consequences, illustrating moral lessons about law and order.
Shakespeare's characters frequently grapple with transgressions, exploring themes of guilt and redemption.
Dante’s 'Inferno' categorizes sinners by their transgressions, providing a vivid depiction of moral justice in literature.

Psychology

Transgressions can cause feelings of guilt or shame, highlighting the psychological impact of breaking social norms.
Research shows that people often rationalize their transgressions to alleviate inner conflict.
Moral psychology studies how societal values influence perceptions of what makes someone a transgressor.

Pop Culture

Villains in movies like 'The Godfather' often embody the idea of transgressors by defying societal norms for personal gain.
In music, transgression is a common theme, with numerous artists exploring rebellion against authority or moral codes.
Reality TV often glorifies transgressors, creating scenarios where rule-breaking leads to drama and viewer engagement.

Law

In legal terms, a transgressor may be held accountable through trials and penalties, enforcing societal rules.
There are different degrees of transgression, ranging from minor infractions to serious crimes, influencing legal consequences.
The concept of transgressor relates closely to criminology, analyzing patterns of behavior that lead to rule-breaking.

Origin of 'transgressor'

Main points about word origin

The term comes from the Latin word 'transgressus', which means 'to go beyond' or 'to step across'.
In Old French, 'transgresser' meant to violate a law or rule, highlighting a long history of rule-breaking.
The prefix 'trans-' implies movement across, while 'gress' relates to stepping, reinforcing the idea of crossing boundaries.

The word 'transgressor' originated from the Latin word 'transgressor', which means 'a violator'. It has been used in English since the 15th century to refer to someone who violates laws, morals, or social norms. The concept of transgression has been present in various cultures and religions throughout history, highlighting the importance of societal rules and ethical behavior.