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offender

noun

/əˈfɛn dər/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of offender

A person who has committed a crime, violated a law, or engaged in behavior that is deemed unacceptable or harmful within a legal or social framework.
"The offender was sentenced to three years in prison for the robbery."

Detailed meaning of offender

An offender is someone who has transgressed established rules, regulations, or societal norms, resulting in harm or negative consequences to others or to the community at large. Offenders can range from individuals involved in minor infractions or misdemeanors to those responsible for serious crimes. The term encompasses individuals who have been found guilty or convicted of offenses, regardless of the severity or nature of their actions. Offenders may undergo legal proceedings, including trials and sentencing, aimed at administering appropriate punishment, rehabilitation, or reformation. The concept of an offender is central to the criminal justice system and the maintenance of law and order within a society.

Example sentences containing offender

1. The offender was apprehended and taken into custody by the police.
2. The court sentenced the repeat offender to a lengthy prison term.
3. Victim support services offer assistance to survivors of offenders.
4. The judge imposed a hefty fine on the white-collar offender.
5. Rehabilitation programs aim to reintegrate offenders into society.
6. The offender's parole hearing was scheduled for next month.

History and etymology of offender

The noun 'offender' is derived from the verb 'offend,' which has its etymological origins in the Latin word 'offendere.' 'Offendere' is formed by combining 'ob,' meaning 'against,' and 'fendere,' meaning 'to strike' or 'to hit.' Therefore, the etymology of 'offender' conveys the idea of someone who has figuratively struck against the boundaries of acceptable behavior within a legal or social framework. An offender is a person who has committed a crime, violated a law, or engaged in behavior deemed unacceptable or harmful, often resulting in legal consequences. This term underscores the concept of crossing established lines or boundaries, as rooted in its Latin origins in the notion of striking against societal norms or laws.

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Further usage examples of offender

1. The community demanded stricter penalties for violent offenders.
2. The offender's remorse played a role in the sentencing decision.
3. Restorative justice seeks to reconcile victims and offenders.
4. The offender's attorney argued for a more lenient punishment.
5. The victim forgave the offender, leading to a surprising outcome.
6. Repeat offenders often require more intensive rehabilitation.
7. The offender's confession led to a breakthrough in the case.
8. The probation officer closely monitored the actions of the offender.
9. Juvenile offenders are subject to a different legal process.
10. The offender's actions had a profound impact on the community.
11. The offender's identity remained confidential during the trial.
12. Victim advocates work to ensure justice for crime survivors.
13. The offender's history of violence raised concerns in court.
14. Restitution was ordered to compensate the victim of the offender.
15. The police apprehended the offender shortly after the crime was committed.
16. The victim provided a detailed description of the offender to aid in the investigation.
17. Rehabilitation programs aim to reintegrate offenders into society after their release.
18. The offender pleaded guilty in court and expressed remorse for their actions.
19. The offender was placed on probation as an alternative to incarceration.
20. The community demanded stricter penalties for repeat offenders.
21. The offender's fingerprints were found at the crime scene, linking them to the incident.
22. The offender was required to pay restitution to compensate the victim for the damages.
23. The offender's history of violence raised concerns about their potential for reoffending.
24. The support group provided counseling and guidance to help offenders reform their behavior.
25. The offender's criminal record made it challenging for them to secure employment.