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Definition of crime

crime

/kɹaɪm/
crime

Adverb:criminally
•
Plural:crimes
•
Adjective:criminal
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crime Lexical Profile

crime Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

An action or omission that constitutes a violation of law and is punishable by the state.

Example

"Perjury is a serious crime that undermines the integrity of the judicial system."


2

Illegal activities in general, considered collectively as a social phenomenon.

Example

"Community outreach programs and improved street lighting helped reduce neighborhood crime."


3

Angrave, shameful, or regrettable act or situation that is morally wrong or foolish, even if not strictly illegal.

Example

"It is a real crime to let all that fresh produce go to waste."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Rhymes for crime

Word Origin & Etymology

Borrowed in the 13th century from Old French crime, from Latin crimen ('accusation, indictment, fault, or offense'), likely related to cernere ('to decide, sift, or judge').

Cite this Entry


Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Crime. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/crime
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