Definition

A person who helps another in doing something wrong or illegal, especially in a crime.

Example

The police arrested the accomplice who helped the robber escape.

Conversation

Did you hear about that recent robbery in town?

Yeah, I heard they caught one of the thieves but not the accomplice.

It's crazy how they always seem to have someone helping them out.

Exactly! I wonder what the accomplice is planning next.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Accomplice is formed from "ac-" (a variant of "ad-", meaning to) and "complicare" (meaning to fold together). The word describes someone who is involved or folded into a crime or wrongdoing alongside another person.

Memory Tip

Think of someone who is 'folded into' ('complicare') a plan or action with another person ('ac-'). An accomplice is someone who is involved in a scheme together.

Visually Confused Words