Definition

A type of attack where someone is threatened or harmed in order to steal from them.

Example

The police are investigating a series of mugging incidents in the area.

Conversation

Did you hear about that mugging downtown last night?

Yeah, I read about it in the news; it's so scary!

I can't believe how common mugging has become lately.

I know, we really need to be more careful when we're out.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Mugging → The word 'mugging' originates from the slang term 'mug', which is believed to derive from the earlier term 'mugger', meaning a person who attacks or robs someone. The term 'mug' itself may have roots in the 17th-century English word 'mug', meaning a face or grimace, which evolved to describe a person who makes a threatening face or gesture. Thus, 'mugging' refers to the act of attacking or robbing someone, often with a threatening demeanor.

Memory Tip

Think of someone making a threatening 'face' ('mug') while 'attacking' or 'robbing' someone — that's why 'mugging' means to attack or rob.

Visually Confused Words