Part of Speech

Noun

Pronunciation

/ˈbɜːɡləri/

Definitions

• Noun: The act of illegally entering a building, especially a home, with the intent to commit a crime, usually theft.
• Noun: A crime involving the breaking and entering of a property, typically for the purpose of stealing items from it.

Usage Examples

• "The police have arrested several suspects in connection with a string of recent burglaries."
• "Burglary rates in the city have decreased due to improved security measures in homes and businesses."
• "The homeowner installed a high-tech alarm system to prevent burglary while they were on vacation."

Etymology

Derived from the Middle English word "burglary," which comes from the Old French "burglari" (from "burge," meaning "town") and the suffix "-ary," meaning a place or act. Historically, the term referred to a crime committed within the town or a fortified settlement.

Synonyms

• Theft
• Breaking and entering
• Housebreaking
• Larceny

Antonyms

• Honesty
• Integrity
• Security
• Protection

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

The pronunciation of "burglary" is generally consistent across English-speaking regions, though accents may affect the emphasis on syllables. In American English, it tends to be pronounced with a clearer emphasis on the first syllable, while in British English, it may be softer.

Historical Usage

The term "burglary" has been used since the 14th century to describe the illegal entry into a home or property, often for the purpose of theft. Over the centuries, the legal definitions and penalties for burglary have evolved, with modern laws taking into account the severity of the crime and the intent of the offender. In the past, burglary was often associated with crimes in urban areas, where wealthier citizens were targeted by burglars seeking to steal valuables.

Cultural Nuances

In different cultures, the concept of burglary is viewed with varying levels of severity. In some societies, burglary is seen as a serious violation of personal space and security, often associated with a breakdown of trust and safety within a community. In other cultures, the punishment for burglary may be less harsh, and it may be considered a lesser crime compared to other forms of theft.

More Information

Burglary is a crime that has been recognized for centuries and is typically defined as entering a building or structure with the intent to commit a crime, most commonly theft. The act of burglary can also involve other criminal activities such as vandalism or assault. Burglary is distinct from robbery, as it typically does not involve direct confrontation or violence with the victim. Modern security measures, such as alarms, surveillance cameras, and reinforced doors, have made it more difficult for burglars to successfully carry out their crimes, but burglary remains a major concern in urban areas worldwide.