trespass

²trespass

verb \-ˌpas also -pəs\

Definition of TRESPASS

intransitive verb

1

a : err, sin b : to make an unwarranted or uninvited incursion

2

: to commit a trespass; especially : to enter unlawfully upon the land of another

transitive verb

: violate <trespass the bounds of good taste>

— tres·pass·er noun

Examples of TRESPASS

1. He told me I was trespassing.
2. The sign said “No Trespassing.”

Origin of TRESPASS

Middle English, from Anglo-French trespasser to overtake, exceed, wrong, from tres to a high degree (from Latin trans beyond) + passer to pass — more at through, pass

First Known Use: 14th century

Related to TRESPASS

Synonyms: err, fall, sin, stray, transgress, offend, wander

Related Words: breach, break, infringe, violate; backslide, lapse; mess up

Near Antonyms: forgive, justify, pardon; regret, repent, rue

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Synonym Discussion of TRESPASS

trespass, encroach, infringe, invade mean to make inroads upon the property, territory, or rights of another. trespass implies an unwarranted or unlawful intrusion <hunters trespassing on farmland>. encroach suggests gradual or stealthy entrance upon another's territory or usurpation of another's rights or possessions <the encroaching settlers displacing the native peoples>. infringe implies an encroachment clearly violating a right or prerogative <infringing a copyright>. invade implies a hostile and injurious entry into the territory or sphere of another <accused of invading their privacy>.