Definition

The act of stealing a car from someone, often using force or threats.

Example

The police are increasing patrols to prevent carjacking in the city.

Conversation

Did you hear about that carjacking downtown last night?

Yeah, it’s so scary how common it’s becoming.

I know, right? I always lock my doors now when I’m parked.

Same here, you can never be too careful these days.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Definition

To steal a car from someone, often by using force or intimidation.

Example

The police are investigating a recent carjacking incident in the city.

Tense Forms

Conversation

Did you hear about that recent carjacking downtown?

Yeah, it's crazy how often that happens now.

I know, right? It's like we need to be more careful when parking our cars.

Root Explanation

Carjacking is formed from "car" (from Latin *carrus*, meaning a wheeled vehicle) and "jacking" (from the verb "jack", meaning to steal or lift). The term describes the act of stealing a car, often by force or threat.

Memory Tip

Think of 'car' as a wheeled vehicle and 'jacking' as stealing — together, they describe the act of stealing a car.

Visually Confused Words