Recidivist: meaning, pronunciation and examples
Recidivist noun. A convicted criminal who keeps reoffending.
How to say it
rih-SID-ih-vist/rɪˈsɪdɪvɪst/
4 syllables, stressed on the second (SID). Forms: recidivists, recidivism.
Recidivist in a sentence
Most of the prison’s inmates were recidivists who had been inside before.
As a recidivist biscuit thief, the dog is no longer allowed in the kitchen.
Similar and opposite
Similar:
- reoffender
- repeat offender
- habitual criminal
Where recidivist comes from
From French récidiviste, from Latin recidivus, falling back.
Test yourself
Which word fills the gap?
As a _____ biscuit thief, the dog is no longer allowed in the kitchen.
- suffrage
- recidivist
- probate
Show the answer
recidivist: As a recidivist biscuit thief, the dog is no longer allowed in the kitchen.