breaking and entering

noun

Criminal Law.

1. forcible entry into the home or office of another.

breaking and entering

noun

1. (formerly) the gaining of unauthorized access to a building with intent to commit a crime or, having committed the crime, the breaking out of the building

Word History and Origins

Origin of breaking and entering¹

First recorded in 1790–1800

Example Sentences

Earlier that day, 27-year-old Christina Vale had been arrested and charged with breaking and entering and disposing of stolen property, police say.

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It includes prison time and convictions for breaking and entering, reckless driving, eluding arrest and illegally possessing a gun as a former felon, according to state records.

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Four people, including two brothers, were indicted April 18 after a nine-month investigation on 95 counts of unarmed burglary and breaking and entering a dwelling house in the daytime with intent to commit a felony.

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Squatting is legal is Australia, but laws prohibiting breaking and entering or trespass - remaining on private property when instructed to leave - still apply.

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“Yes, Dad, I’m fine. That lady was breaking and entering,” I explained.

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