rob
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /rɒb/
KK: /rɑb/
intransitive verb
Definition
To take something from someone by force or threat, often illegally.
Example
The thief decided to rob the bank in broad daylight.
Tense Forms
Past: robbed
Past Participle: robbed
Conversation
Did you hear about that guy who tried to rob the bank downtown?
Yeah, I read about it! What a crazy story.
I wonder what made him think he could actually get away with it.
People sometimes take risks without thinking; it's pretty wild.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
steal
thieve
plunder
Antonyms
give
donate
contribute
transitive verb
Definition
To take something from someone illegally, often using force or threats.
Example
The thief tried to rob the bank in broad daylight.
Tense Forms
Past: robbed
Past Participle: robbed
Conversation
Did you hear about that robbery downtown?
Yeah, they said someone tried to rob a jewelry store!
I can't believe people would actually do that.
Root Explanation
Rob comes from the Old French 'rober' (meaning to seize or take away), which is derived from the Germanic root 'raubōną' (meaning to plunder). The word 'rob' means to seize or take away someone else's property unlawfully.
Memory Tip
Think of the Old French word 'rober' meaning to seize — that's why rob means to take something away unlawfully.
Visually Confused Words
roub
prob
brob
ro