felony

[ˈfeləni]

felony Definition

a serious crime that is punishable by imprisonment for more than one year or by death.

Using felony: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "felony" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

  • Example

    He was convicted of a felony and sentenced to ten years in prison.

  • Example

    Theft, murder, and rape are all examples of felonies.

  • Example

    Committing a felony can have serious consequences on one's future prospects.

felony Synonyms and Antonyms

Phrases with felony

  • white-collar felony

    a non-violent crime committed by someone in a position of trust or authority, typically involving financial gain

    Example

    Embezzlement is an example of a white-collar felony.

  • felony murder

    a legal doctrine that allows a person to be charged with murder if they commit a felony that results in someone's death, even if they did not intend to kill anyone

    Example

    If a person robs a bank and someone dies during the robbery, they can be charged with felony murder.

  • capital felony

    a felony that is punishable by death

    Example

    Murder is an example of a capital felony in some states.

Origins of felony

from Old French 'felonie', from Latin 'felonia', meaning 'treachery'

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Summary: felony in Brief

The term 'felony' [ˈfeləni] refers to a serious crime that carries a punishment of imprisonment for more than one year or death. Examples of felonies include theft, murder, and rape. The phrase 'white-collar felony' denotes non-violent crimes committed by people in positions of trust or authority, while 'felony murder' is a legal doctrine that holds people responsible for deaths that occur during the commission of a felony.