noun. The act of entering another's premises without authorization in order to commit a crime, such as theft.

noun. An instance of this.

noun. The act or crime of nocturnal house breaking, with an intent to commit a felony therein, whether such felony be actually committed or not.

noun. Breaking and entering the dwelling house of another, in the nighttime, with intent to commit a felony therein, whether the felonious purpose be accomplished or not.

noun. The crime of unlawfully breaking into a vehicle, house, store, or other enclosure with the intent to steal.

noun. Under the common law, breaking and entering of the dwelling of another at night with the intent to commit a felony.

noun. Under the Model Penal Code, entering a building or occupied structure with purpose to commit a crime therein, unless the premises are at the time open to the public or the actor is licensed or privileged to enter. Model Penal Code § 221.1.

noun. entering a building unlawfully with intent to commit a felony or to steal valuable property

"For example, if burglary is necessary to save life, it deserves warrant, but if considered only to ascertain the truth of a wagered outcome, one may do nought but persuade its possessor to divulge."

breaking and entering  trespass  

burglar  burglar alarm  burglarize  

felony  

break-in  breaking and entering  housebreaking  

abduction  adultery  arson  embezzlement  extortion  

break-in  breaking and entering  burglarizing  caper  effraction