breach of the peace

noun

Law.

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

breach of the peace

noun

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

Word History and Origins

Origin of breach of the peace¹

First recorded in 1665–75

Example Sentences

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

The policies include a new definition of what counts as a disruption to include “speech or conduct that is likely to incite an immediate breach of the peace.”

From Los Angeles Times

"We have somebody who was given a 14 month punishment part for breach of the peace and is still in prison 14 years later."

From BBC

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

From BBC

Surrey Police made three arrests at a protest outside the Four Points by Sheraton Hotel - two for breach of the peace and one for breaching the conditions of a community protection notice.

From BBC