Robbery

Definition

Robbery is the crime of taking or attempting to take anything of value by force, threat of force, or by putting the victim in fear.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈrɑbəri/
• Respelling: RAH-buh-ree (with "RAH" as in "father," "buh" as a softer, more flexible sound like the 'u' in "cup," and "ree" as in "see")

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈrɒbəri/
• Respelling: ROB-uh-ree (with "ROB" as in "cot," "uh" as a softer, more flexible sound, and "ree" as in "see")

In both dialects, "robbery" is pronounced with a stress on the first syllable, followed by softer subsequent syllables, culminating in a clear "ree" sound. The primary difference lies in the vowel sound of the first syllable, reflecting the typical vowel sound differences between American and British English.

Etymology

The word "robbery" originates from Anglo-Norman roberie, from Old French rober, which is linked to the verb "rob." The term has been in usage since the early 13th century.

Derivatives

• Rob
• Robber
• Robbing
• Robbed
• Robberies

Synonyms

• Burglary
• Thievery
• Larceny

Antonyms

• Restitution
• Compensation
• Repayment

Usage

"Robbery" is primarily used in legal and general contexts to describe a crime where valuables are taken unlawfully, typically involving force or the threat of force.

Related Terms

• Burglar
• Theft
• Heist
• Mugging
• Holdup

Detailed Definition

Noun

• Crime of stealing: The action of robbing a person or place.‍
• Example: The bank was closed due to a robbery.

• Illegal taking: The illegal taking of something from the possession of another, especially by using force or threats.‍
• Example: The defense attorney argued that no robbery had occurred since no threats were made.

• Act of depriving: The act of depriving someone of something unjustly or injuriously.‍
• Example: The CEO's embezzlement was a robbery of the company's hard-earned profits.