Burglar - Meaning, Definition & English Examples
A burglar is a person who illegally enters a building, usually at night, to steal property. The act of stealing in this way is called burglary.
Definition:
A person who illegally enters a building to steal items.
Synonyms:
thief, robber, housebreaker, intruder
Part of Speech:
noun
Antonyms:
guard, protector
Common Collocations:
burglar alarm, burglar proof, catch a burglar, burglar tools
Derivatives:
burglary, burglarize
Usage Tips:
Use "burglar" for someone who breaks into buildings; avoid for general theft or robbery contexts.
Common Phrases:
cat burglar, burglar alarm, like a burglar in the night
Etymology:
From Latin "burgus" (fortress) + Old French "laron" (thief), meaning a thief who breaks into homes.
Examples:
- 1. The burglar stole jewelry from the house.
- 2. She called the police when she saw a burglar in her yard.
- 3. The store installed cameras to deter burglars.
- 4. A masked burglar broke in through the window last night.