burglar

noun

bur·​glar ˈbər-glər How to pronounce burglar (audio)
 also  -gə-lər
: one who commits burglary

Examples of burglar in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
These examples are automatically compiled from online sources to illustrate current usage. Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
Share [Findings] Young burglars are driven first by thrills, then by skills. Rafil Kroll-Zaidi, Harper's Magazine, 23 Oct. 2024 California Boring burglar tunnels into California gun store, steals $40,000 in merchandise July 23, 2024 Foothill Ranch Elementary School, located nearby, was temporarily placed on lockdown as deputies combed the area. Clara Harter, Los Angeles Times, 19 Oct. 2024 Between July 16 and Sept. 5, 2023, 10 residents in Plano, Prosper and McKinney had their homes invaded by burglars targeting gold, jewelry and cash. Greg Wehner, Fox News, 18 Oct. 2024 The fire appeared to have been allegedly set by burglars stealing liquor, according to reports. Susan Selasky, Detroit Free Press, 19 Sep. 2024 See all Example Sentences for burglar 

Word History

Etymology

Anglo-French burgler, from Medieval Latin burglator, probably alteration of burgator, from burgare to commit burglary

First Known Use

1541, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of burglar was in 1541

Dictionary Entries Near burglar

Cite this Entry

“Burglar.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/burglar. Accessed 8 Nov. 2024.

Kids Definition

burglar

noun
bur·​glar ˈbər-glər How to pronounce burglar (audio)
: a person who commits burglary

Legal Definition

burglar

noun
bur·​glar ˈbər-glər How to pronounce burglar (audio)
: a person who commits a burglary
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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