perp

1 of 2

noun

plural perps
: a perpetrator especially of a crime see also perp walk

perp

2 of 2

abbreviation

Examples of perp in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Noun
Now, when someone tries to unlock your phone, Bitdefender will silently send you a picture of the perp. PCMAG, 14 Jan. 2025 And since this is at least victim number three, the perp is now officially a serial killer. Louis Peitzman, Vulture, 12 Jan. 2025 Marion and Will place bets and Will reveals an adorable photo of his chihuahua, Betty, before the perp in question can't take the pressure and offers to talk. Esther Kang, People.com, 2 Jan. 2025 Using two cantaloupes and some ketchup, Dexter demonstrates that the perp must have strangled his victim to death before dropping the body, accounting for the limited blood spatter. Louis Peitzman, Vulture, 27 Dec. 2024 See all Example Sentences for perp 

Word History

First Known Use

Noun

1968, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of perp was in 1968

Dictionary Entries Near perp

Cite this Entry

“Perp.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/perp. Accessed 29 Jan. 2025.

Legal Definition

perp

noun
: a perpetrator of a crime

More from Merriam-Webster on perp

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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