The Complete Vocabulary Builder Workbook by BETTER WORDS R. B. Skinner

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perpetrator

noun

/ˈpəːpətreɪtə/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of perpetrator

An individual or entity responsible for committing a specific act, typically a wrongdoing, crime, offense, or harmful action.
"The perpetrator of the robbery was finally caught by the police."

Detailed meaning of perpetrator

The term 'perpetrator' is commonly used in the context of law enforcement, criminal justice, and investigations to identify and describe those who have carried out illegal or unethical activities. It underscores the role of the person or party responsible for initiating and executing a particular act, emphasizing their culpability and the need for accountability and justice. 'Perpetrator' can refer to a wide range of individuals, from petty criminals to those involved in more serious and heinous offenses, and it plays a crucial role in identifying and prosecuting those who have violated the law or harmed others.

Example sentences containing perpetrator

1. The perpetrator of the crime was caught red-handed by the police.
2. The victim bravely identified the perpetrator in the lineup.
3. The court found the perpetrator guilty of the heinous act.
4. The police launched a manhunt to apprehend the perpetrator.
5. The perpetrator wore a mask to conceal their identity.
6. The perpetrator left behind crucial evidence at the crime scene.

History and etymology of perpetrator

The noun 'perpetrator' has its etymology rooted in Latin. It is derived from the Latin word 'perpetrator,' which is the past participle of 'perpetrare,' meaning 'to perform' or 'to commit.' In Latin, 'perpetrare' was used to describe the act of carrying out or performing a specific action. 'Perpetrator' entered the English language in the 16th century and is used to describe an individual or entity responsible for committing a specific act, typically a wrongdoing, crime, offense, or harmful action. Its etymology underscores the emphasis on the act of committing or performing, as implied by its Latin origins in 'perpetrator,' highlighting the role and responsibility of those who carry out certain actions, especially those that are harmful or unlawful.

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Further usage examples of perpetrator

1. The authorities are determined to bring the perpetrator to justice.
2. The perpetrator's motive for the crime remains unknown.
3. The community was shocked to learn that one of their own was the perpetrator.
4. The victim's family sought closure by confronting the perpetrator in court.
5. The perpetrator showed no remorse for their actions during the trial.
6. The perpetrator's criminal history revealed a pattern of violent behavior.
7. The detective painstakingly built a case against the perpetrator.
8. The perpetrator's fingerprints were found on the murder weapon.
9. The perpetrator attempted to flee the scene but was apprehended by a vigilant bystander.
10. The perpetrator's confession provided insight into their twisted mindset.
11. The perpetrator targeted vulnerable individuals in their crimes.
12. The perpetrator's actions left a lasting impact on the survivors.
13. The perpetrator's lawyer argued for a lenient sentence based on their troubled upbringing.
14. The community rallied together to support the victims and condemn the perpetrator.