Meaning & Definition of word "Offender"

Offender

əˈfɛndər

noun:

  • 1. a person who commits a crime or an illegal act.
    • Example: The court found the offender guilty of robbery.
  • 2. someone who breaks a law or rule.
    • Example: Traffic offenders can face heavy fines and penalties.
  • 3. a person who has committed a moral or social offense.
    • Example: He was considered an offender after his actions at the charity event.
  • 4. an individual who violates a code of conduct.
    • Example: The school has a strict policy regarding offenders who bully other students.

Etymology

Middle English, 'offendour', from Old French 'offendour' and from Latin 'offensorem', meaning 'to strike against'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

repeat offender:

A person who repeatedly commits offenses.

first-time offender:

A person who is committing an offense for the first time.

status offender:

A person who has committed an act that would not be a crime if they were an adult.

Related Words

crime:

An act that violates a law.

punishment:

A penalty inflicted for wrongdoing.

rehabilitation:

The process of re-educating or restoring an offender's ability to function in society.

Slang Meanings of offender

Meaning: bad apple

Example Sentence: He's a real bad apple, always getting into trouble.

Meaning: criminal

Example Sentence: Don't hang out with him; he's a criminal.