Meaning & Definition of word "Perpetrate"
to
Perpetrate
/ˈpɜːrpɪtreɪt/
verb:
- 1. to carry out or commit (a harmful, illegal, or immoral action)
- Example: The hacker was able to perpetrate a massive data breach that exposed sensitive information.
- 2. to bring about or perform something, typically something undesirable.
- Example: The investigation revealed that several individuals conspired to perpetrate fraud against the organization.
- 3. to continue indefinitely; to sustain or prolong.
- Example: The myth was perpetrated for generations despite the lack of evidence.
- 4. to inflict pain or suffering on others.
- Example: The tyrant perpetrated numerous atrocities during his reign.
Etymology
From Latin 'perpetratus', past participle of 'perpetrare', meaning 'to perform, carry out, or accomplish'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
perpetrate a crime:
To commit an illegal act.
perpetrate a hoax:
To carry out a deceptive act, typically to mislead or trick others.
perpetrate an injustice:
To commit an unfair or wrongful act.
Related Words
perpetrator:
A person who commits a crime or a harmful act.
perpetration:
The act of committing a crime or carrying out an unlawful act.
perpetuate:
To cause something to continue indefinitely.
Slang Meanings of perpetrate
Meaning: To mess up
Example Sentence: I totally perpetrated that last exam by not studying.
Meaning: To pull a stunt
Example Sentence: He really perpetrated a wild stunt at the party last night.