crime

crime · noun

imported

Definitions

noun

  1. 1.

    An action that constitutes an offense punishable by law.

  2. 2.

    Illegal activities in general.

  3. 3.

    (informal) Something morally wrong or shameful.

Forms

plural: crimes

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    crime scene — the location where a crime occurred
  • •
    crime rate — the frequency of crimes in an area
  • •
    crime wave — a sudden increase in criminal activity
  • •
    crime doesn't pay — wrongdoing will ultimately be punished
  • •
    partner in crime — an accomplice or close friend

Related words

See also: crimes, criminal, felony, offense
Synonyms: felony, misdemeanor, offense, violation, wrongdoing

Etymology

From Old French crime, from Latin crimen meaning "charge, accusation, offense," related to cernere meaning "to decide, judge."