Meaning & Definition of word "Perpetrate"

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.