Definition

A person who illegally enters a building with the intention of stealing something.

Example

The burglar was caught trying to break into the house at night.

Conversation

Did you hear about the burglar that broke into the old house on Elm Street?

Yeah, I saw it on the news! That's so scary.

I can't believe someone would do that in our neighborhood.

Right? It makes me want to get better locks on my doors.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Burglar → It originates from the Old French word 'burglar', which is derived from 'burge' (meaning town or fortified place) and the suffix '-ar' (indicating a person who does something). A burglar is thus a person who comes from or operates in a town, specifically one who unlawfully enters a building to commit theft.

Memory Tip

Think of someone who comes from a 'town' ('burge') to 'steal' — that's why a burglar is a person who unlawfully enters a place.

Visually Confused Words