robbery

noun

rob·​bery ˈrä-b(ə-)rē 

plural robberies

: the act or practice of robbing

specifically : larceny from the person or presence of another by violence or threat

Synonyms of robbery

• stealing
• theft

Examples of robbery in a Sentence

a series of armed robberies

They foiled a bank robbery.

He is charged with attempted robbery.

She was arrested for robbery.

Recent Examples on the Web

The teen is charged with third-degree robbery, third-degree assault, and larceny of motor vehicle, according to Murgo. — Staff Report, Hartford Courant, 26 July 2026

In one instance, ALPRs helped police catch a suspect accused of domestic violence, vehicle robbery and possession of a firearm. — Eric Levenson, CNN Money, 26 July 2026

He was also convicted in 2022 of assault and robbery by extortion, the office said. — Freddie Clayton, NBC news, 26 July 2026

On Thursday afternoon, Denton officers responded to the robbery call and arrested 46-year-old John Dyer, police said in a news release. — Mary Ella Hastings july 24, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 25 July 2026

Word History

First Known Use

12th century, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing robbery

• armed robbery
• highway robbery

Rhymes for robbery

• jobbery
• snobbery

Kids Definition

robbery

noun

rob·​bery ˈräb-(ə-)rē 

plural robberies

: the act, practice, or an instance of robbing

Legal Definition

robbery

noun

rob·​bery

plural robberies

: the unlawful taking away of personal property from a person by violence or by threat of violence that causes fear : larceny from the person or immediate presence of another by violence or threat of violence and with intent to steal

— aggravated robbery

: robbery committed with aggravating factors (as use of a weapon, infliction of bodily injury, or use of an accomplice)

— armed robbery

: robbery committed by a person armed with a dangerous or deadly weapon

— simple robbery

: robbery that does not involve any aggravating factors

Etymology

Anglo-French robberie, roberie, from Old French, from rober to take something away from a person by force