transgress

UK: /trænzˈɡres/ | US: /trænzˈɡres/

Definition

  1. vt. to violate a law, command, or moral boundary

  2. vi. to go beyond set limits or norms

Structure
trans <across>gress <step>
Etymology

Derived from Latin transgredi ("to step across"), combining trans- (across) and gradi (to step). The root gress evolved from gradus (step), reflecting physical or metaphorical boundary-crossing. Originally literal (e.g., crossing a river), it later shifted to moral/legal contexts, emphasizing overstepping limits.

Examples

  1. The protestors transgressed the property line and were arrested.

  2. His actions transgressed the ethical guidelines of the profession.

  3. Ancient myths often depict heroes transgressing divine laws.

  4. Artists sometimes transgress cultural norms to provoke thought.

  5. The treaty forbids any party to transgress the agreed borders.