Definition

To enter someone's property or space without permission, or to violate a rule or boundary.

Example

He was warned not to trespass on private land.

Tense Forms

Conversation

I heard someone might trespass on our property this weekend.

Really? That's pretty concerning!

Yeah, we should put up some signs to make it clear.

Good idea! We don't want anyone to accidentally trespass.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Definition

An act of entering someone's property without permission or violating a law or rule.

Example

The neighbor accused him of trespass when he walked through her yard without asking.

Conversation

Did you hear about the guy who got sued for trespass last week?

Yeah, I read that he wandered into someone's backyard by mistake.

I can't believe how serious a trespass charge can be.

Root Explanation

Trespass → It is formed from "tres-" (from Old French *trespasser*, meaning to pass beyond) and "pass" (from Latin *passare*, meaning to step or go). The word describes the act of going beyond a boundary or limit, often in a legal context.

Memory Tip

Think of someone 'passing beyond' a boundary — 'tres-' means to go beyond, and 'pass' means to step. This helps you remember that trespass refers to entering someone else's property without permission.

Visually Confused Words