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Trespasser Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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trespasser

[หˆtrespษ™sษ™r ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

legal term

A person who unlawfully enters another person's property.

Synonyms

interloper, intruder.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
trespasser

Used to describe someone who enters a private property without permission. Primarily used in legal or property-related situations.

  • The farmer called the police because a trespasser was seen near the barn.
  • Posted signs warned potential trespassers to keep out.
intruder

Describes someone who enters a place, usually a building, unlawfully and with the potential intent to harm or steal. Commonly used in security or safety contexts.

  • The alarm went off when an intruder attempted to break into the house.
  • Security guards apprehended an intruder in the office building late at night.
interloper

Refers to someone who gets involved in a place or situation where they are not wanted or do not belong. Often used in social or informal settings.

  • She felt like an interloper at the exclusive party.
  • The new student was viewed as an interloper by the established group of friends.

Examples of usage

  • He was arrested for being a trespasser on private land.
  • The sign warned trespassers of prosecution.
  • The homeowner called the police to report the trespasser.
  • The trespasser claimed he didn't know he was on private property.
  • The trespasser was charged with breaking and entering.
Context #2 | Verb

legal term

To enter someone's land or property without permission.

Synonyms

encroach, intrude, trespass, violate.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
trespasser

Someone who enters a property without permission. This is often used in legal or property contexts.

  • The signs warned trespassers to keep out.
  • The farmer chased the trespasser off his land.
intrude

Entering a place or a situation where you are not wanted or invited. This can refer to both physical spaces and social settings.

  • I didn't mean to intrude, but I heard your conversation.
  • The reporter intruded on the private funeral.
encroach

To gradually take or move into someone else's space, rights, or property. Often used to describe slow, progressive intrusion.

  • The weeds began to encroach upon the garden.
  • New housing developments encroach on wildlife habitats.
violate

Breaking a rule, law, or someone's rights. This word often carries a strong negative connotation.

  • The company violated environmental regulations.
  • He was accused of violating her privacy.
trespass

Entering someone's property without permission. Often used in legal contexts, signaling an unauthorized entry.

  • The hunter was fined for trespassing on private land.
  • Trespassing on railway tracks is dangerous and illegal.

Examples of usage

  • He trespassed onto the farmer's fields.
  • The company warned against trespassing on their premises.
  • The law prohibits trespassing on government property.
  • If you trespass on my land again, I will call the police.
  • The neighbor trespassed by cutting through the backyard.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Legal Definition

  • In law, trespassing involves entering someone's land or property without their permission.
  • Different countries have varying laws about what constitutes trespassing, impacting how cases are handled.
  • Some jurisdictions have specific laws protecting not only property but also personal privacy from trespassers.

Historical Context

  • Historically, trespassing laws emerged to protect the land rights of individuals and prevent disputes.
  • In medieval times, trespassers could face severe penalties, including fines or even physical punishment.
  • Certain customs and traditions, like 'right to roam' laws, evolved to balance public access with private land ownership.

Cultural Representation

  • In literature and film, trespassers are often portrayed as adventurous characters who challenge boundaries, reflecting human curiosity.
  • The concept features prominently in thrillers and horror stories where characters face consequences for intruding on forbidden spaces.
  • Cultural depictions often illustrate trespassing as either a courageous act or a morally wrong decision, influencing viewers' perceptions.

Environmental Impact

  • Trespassing in natural areas can lead to environmental degradation, such as damage to wildlife habitats.
  • Conservationists often emphasize that unauthorized access can disrupt sensitive ecosystems and endangered species.
  • Some initiatives aim at educating the public on respecting nature by understanding the implications of being a trespasser.

Psychology

  • Psychologically, the act of trespassing can be linked to impulsive behavior, where individuals disregard rules and boundaries.
  • Studies suggest that thrill-seeking personality traits might lead some to engage in trespassing as an adrenaline rush.
  • Cultural upbringing and personal experiences can shape oneโ€™s view on the morality of trespassing and respecting property.

Origin of 'trespasser'

The word 'trespasser' originated from Middle English and Old French, from the word 'trespassen', which means 'to commit a trespass'. The concept of trespass dates back to early English common law, where it referred to the act of unlawfully entering someone else's land. Over time, the term evolved to encompass a broader range of actions that infringe on another person's rights or property.

See also: trespass, trespasses, trespassing.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #20,620, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.