Robbery Definition and Legal Meaning

On this page, you'll find the legal definition and meaning of Robbery, written in plain English, along with examples of how it is used.

What is Robbery?

(n) Robbery is taking the physical possession of an article or movable property without the consent of the owner or holder of right in that property by stealing, or by exerting force threat etc. Robbery is a criminal activity punishable with imprisonment

History and Meaning of Robbery

The term robbery derives from the Latin word "robare," meaning to take or plunder. Robbery is an act in which force, intimidation or violence is used to take someone else's property without their permission.

The origins of robbery can be traced back to ancient times, with instances of robbery recorded in old texts from many different cultures. In the past, robbery was often associated with pirates or bandits who would seize goods or money while travelling, and then flee the scene.

Examples of Robbery

  1. A man robs a convenience store at gunpoint, taking cash from the register.
  2. A group of thieves break into a person's home and steal their jewelry and electronics.
  3. An individual forcibly takes a purse from someone walking down the street.

Legal Terms Similar to Robbery

  1. Burglary − Unlawfully entering a building with the intent to commit theft or another crime.
  2. Larceny − The unlawful taking of another person's property with the intent to permanently deprive them of it.
  3. Theft − Taking someone else's property without their consent.