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Synonyms

breach of the peace

American  

noun

Law.
  1. a violation of the public peace, as by a riot, disturbance, etc.


breach of the peace British  

noun

  1. law an offence against public order causing an unnecessary disturbance of the peace

"Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged" 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

Etymology

Origin of breach of the peace

First recorded in 1665–75

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

See Examples For:

Kastrati was earlier acquitted of charges of breach of the peace, stealing a car and motoring offences when the prosecution withdrew the charges.

From BBC Nov. 25, 2025

Mr Marshall, from Carluke in South Lanarkshire, was on remand for unpaid fines and breach of the peace charges when he experienced a mental health crisis.

From BBC Sep. 26, 2025

Police said officers "enforced cordons in the area to prevent a breach of the peace and three arrests were made".

From BBC Aug. 31, 2025

Mr Marshall, from Carluke in South Lanarkshire, was 30 when he died nine years ago while on remand awaiting a court appearance over unpaid fines and breach of the peace charges.

From BBC Jul. 23, 2024

The conclusion was so evident that, had it not been for a good deal of soothing syrup at 'Arry's expense, there might have been a serious breach of the peace.

From Mr. Punch's Cockney Humour by Various

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