WordGarden.iotrespass
C2Pronunciation
UK
- /trˈɛspəs/
US
- /ˈtrɛsˌpæs/
Meanings
Noun
unlawful entry onto someone else's land or property
an infringement on someone's rights, privacy, or proper limits
Verb
to enter or remain on someone else's land or property without permission
to infringe on someone's rights, privacy, or proper limits
Beyond the definition
Imagine an old orchard, bursting with ripe apples. Now, imagine walking onto that land without the owner's permission—that is a trespass. At its core, it means going where you do not have the right to be, whether you are physically stepping onto someone's property or overstepping boundaries in a more abstract way.
Trespass isn't always about fences and "No Trespassing" signs. You can also trespass on someone's privacy, rights, or peace by crossing a line that should be respected. The word is often used for land and property, but it can also describe other kinds of unwanted intrusion. Some boundaries are marked by walls and signs; others are invisible, but just as real.
To trespass means to enter onto someone else's land or property without consent. It is a violation of their rights that can carry legal consequences ranging from a simple warning to a fine or arrest. Think of it as an unwelcome intrusion—physically stepping where you aren't invited, but also extending to other forms of unauthorized entry into someone's personal domain.
Originally, the concept of trespass was deeply rooted in law to protect the rights of landowners. Over time, however, its meaning broadened. In a modern context, you can trespass on someone's privacy by snooping through their belongings or reading their emails. The word can also be used more broadly for crossing personal, social, or moral boundaries that should be respected.
The word carries a sense of deliberate disregard for boundaries, whether those boundaries are physical fences, legal limits, or social expectations. While a sign might sternly warn that "Trespassers will be prosecuted," the act itself is about more than just breaking a rule; it is about disrespecting someone's autonomy and space.
In literature, the act of trespassing often symbolizes the crossing of moral, emotional, or societal lines. It describes characters who venture into forbidden territories, both literally and figuratively. Whether you are talking about a locked gate or a personal boundary, to trespass is to intentionally overstep the limits set by others.
Examples
- 1
Private property
The sign warned visitors not to trespass on private land.
- 2
Empty building
Two teenagers were caught trespassing in the empty factory after dark.
- 3
Legal report
The farmer reported the trespass to the police the next morning.
- 4
Time imposition
I don't want to trespass on your time, so I'll keep this brief.
- Patterntrespass on + someone's time
use more of their time than is fair or welcome
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Basic freedoms
The court said the new rule could trespass on basic freedoms.
- Patterntrespass on + rights/freedoms
go too far into an area that should be respected
See also
Forms and spellings
4 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- trespassnounverb
Forms
- trespassing-ing formverbnoun
- trespassespluralnounverb
- trespassedpast tenseverbnoun