perpetrate

UK: ˈpɜːpɪtreɪt | US: ˈpɜːrpɪtreɪt

Definition

  1. vt. to carry out or commit (a harmful, illegal, or immoral action)

Structure
per <through, thoroughly>petr <seek, aim>ate <verb suffix>
Etymology

The word "perpetrate" originates from Latin perpetrare, combining per- (thoroughly) and petrare (to accomplish, seek). The root petr- is linked to petere (to aim, attack), reflecting the idea of actively pursuing or completing an action—often with negative connotations. Over time, it evolved in English to specifically denote committing wrongful acts.

Examples

  1. The gang was caught attempting to perpetrate a robbery.

  2. He denied any involvement in perpetrating the fraud.

  3. Laws exist to punish those who perpetrate violence.

  4. The documentary exposed how the regime perpetrated human rights abuses.

  5. Cybercriminals use sophisticated methods to perpetrate scams.