Part of Speech

Noun

Pronunciation

/ˈbɜːɡlər/

Definitions

• Noun: A person who unlawfully enters a building, typically a home, with the intent to commit theft or another crime.
• Noun: A thief who breaks into a building, often during the night, to steal valuables.

Usage Examples

• "The burglar was apprehended after trying to break into the house through the back door."
• "After the burglary, the neighborhood installed security systems to prevent further incidents."
• "She was shocked when the burglar stole her laptop while she was sleeping in the next room."

Etymology

From Middle English *burglare* (meaning "housebreaker"), from Old French *burglier* ("to break into a house") from the Medieval Latin *burglarus* ("thief"). The word originally referred to someone who committed the crime of housebreaking or robbery.

Synonyms

• Thief
• Housebreaker
• Robber
• Intruder

Antonyms

• Law-abiding citizen
• Protector
• Defender

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

The pronunciation of "burglar" may vary depending on the region. For example, in American English, it is commonly pronounced as /ˈbɜːɡlər/, whereas in British English, the pronunciation might lean towards /ˈbɜːɡlə(r)/ with a slightly softer 'r' sound at the end.

Historical Usage

The word "burglar" dates back to the 14th century, with its first recorded use referring to someone who breaks into a house with the intent to commit a crime. Over time, the meaning of "burglar" expanded to include anyone who commits theft through illegal entry. The criminal act itself became known as "burglary," a term that has remained in common use in legal and law enforcement contexts.

Cultural Nuances

The figure of the "burglar" is often portrayed in literature and film as a sneaky, stealthy character. In certain cultures, burglars may be romanticized or depicted as clever individuals who outsmart the system, but in most societies, burglary is considered a serious crime that undermines the safety and security of individuals and communities.

More Information

Burglaries are among the most common crimes reported worldwide. In addition to the threat to property, burglary is often associated with the violation of personal privacy. Over time, various measures such as home security systems, neighborhood watch programs, and increased law enforcement have been implemented to prevent burglaries. Modern burglary often includes not just theft but also damage to property and even personal harm to those present during the crime.