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Definition of larceny

larceny

/ˈlɑːr.sə.ni/
lar · ce · ny
Adverb:larcenously
•
Plural:larcenies
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Adjective:larcenous
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larceny Lexical Profile

larceny Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

The unlawful taking and carrying away of someone else's personal property with the intent to permanently deprive the rightful owner of it.

Example

"The former accountant was indicted on three counts of grand larceny after auditors discovered the missing funds."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for larceny
Antonyms
View all antonyms for larceny

Word Nuance & Usage

In legal contexts, 'larceny' refers specifically to the unlawful taking of personal property without the use of force, whereas 'robbery' involves taking property directly from a person through force or intimidation, and 'burglary' involves unlawful entry into a structure to commit a crime.

• Rhymes for larceny

• Nearby Words

lapsi
laptop
lapwing
larceny
larch
lard
larder

Word Origin & Etymology

Borrowed in the late 15th century from Anglo-French 'larcin', from Old French 'larrecin', which derives from Latin 'latrocinium' meaning 'robbery' or 'freebooting' (from 'latro', originally meaning 'mercenary soldier' and later 'brigand' or 'thief').

Cite this Entry

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