Langimage
English

trespassing

|tres/pass/ing|

B2

/ˈtrɛsˌpæsɪŋ/

(trespass)

unlawful entry

Base Form3rd Person Sing.PastPast ParticiplePresent ParticipleNoun
trespasstrespassestrespassedtrespassedtrespassingtrespasser
Etymology
Etymology Information

'trespass' originates from Old French, specifically the word 'trespasser,' where 'tres-' meant 'beyond' and 'passer' meant 'to pass.'

Historical Evolution

'trespasser' transformed into the Middle English word 'trespassen,' and eventually became the modern English word 'trespass.'

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'to pass beyond,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'to enter unlawfully.'

Meanings by Part of Speech

Verb 1

to enter someone's land or property without permission.

The sign warned against trespassing on private property.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Verb 2

to commit an offense or sin.

He felt he was trespassing against his own principles.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:41