Criminal Meaning and Definition
Criminal
Pronunciation
/ˈkrɪmɪnjəl/
Part of Speech
Noun
Definition
A person who is guilty of committing a crime or illegal act, especially one that is considered serious.
Etymology
The word “Criminal” comes from the Latin “crimen,” meaning “crime” or “offense.” It has been used in the English language since the 15th century to describe individuals who commit illegal acts.
Usage Notes
The word “Criminal” is often used in formal and informal contexts to refer to individuals who have committed a crime. It can also be used to describe someone’s behavior or actions that are considered illegal or unethical.
Additional Information
Criminals are individuals who engage in illegal activities, such as theft, violence, or fraud. They may be motivated by financial gain, revenge, or other factors. Criminals can face severe legal consequences, including imprisonment, fines, and rehabilitation.
Criminal justice systems aim to ensure that criminals are held accountable for their actions and that society is protected from further harm. Rehabilitation and punishment are common goals of criminal justice systems.
Cultural References
- The phrase “Criminal Minds” is a popular TV show that explores the psychology and motivations of criminals.
- In cinema, the iconic movie “Goodfellas” (1990) features a criminal organization and their illicit activities.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
- “Clean up the criminal element” – to remove criminals from an area or community.
- “Go straight” – to abandon a life of crime and adopt a law-abiding lifestyle.
Related Words or Phrases
- Crime
- Offender
- Lawbreaker
Collocations
- Criminal organization
- Criminal record
- Criminal investigation
Frequency of Use
The word “Criminal” is commonly used in modern language, especially in the context of law enforcement, criminal justice, and popular culture.
Common Misspellings
- Kriminal
- Crinimal
- Crimnal