The Complete Vocabulary Builder Workbook

accomplice

IPA:

Dictionary definition of accomplice

A person who helps someone else commit a crime, wrongdoing, or other illicit activity.
"The criminal was charged as an accomplice in the robbery."

Detailed meaning of accomplice

An accomplice is typically aware of the nature of the crime or activity and actively assists in carrying it out. They may be involved in the planning, preparation, or execution of the act, and may also provide assistance after the fact in order to conceal the crime or avoid detection by law enforcement. Accomplices can be charged and punished for their involvement in a crime, often facing the same penalties as the primary perpetrator. In some cases, the term may also be used more broadly to describe someone who helps or supports someone else in an unethical or immoral endeavor, even if it is not technically illegal.

Example sentences containing accomplice

1. The police arrested the thief and his accomplice during the robbery.
2. The detective worked tirelessly to identify the criminal's accomplice.
3. The mastermind behind the crime had several accomplices working for him.
4. The testimony of the accomplice was crucial in convicting the main suspect.
5. The police investigation uncovered a network of accomplices involved in the drug ring.
6. She was unaware that her friend was secretly acting as an accomplice to the fraud scheme.

History and etymology of accomplice

The noun 'accomplice' has a rich etymology that ties closely to its role in aiding and abetting unlawful activities. It stems from the Middle French word 'acomplice,' which can be broken down into 'a-' meaning 'to' or 'with,' and 'complice,' derived from the Latin 'complex,' meaning 'partner in crime' or 'associate.' So, 'accomplice' essentially means 'one who is with or a partner in a crime.' This etymology emphasizes the collaborative nature of unlawful actions, highlighting the person who actively participates or assists in the commission of a crime or wrongdoing alongside another.

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Further usage examples of accomplice

1. The prosecutor offered a plea deal to the accomplice in exchange for valuable information.
2. The gang members relied on their accomplices to carry out their illegal activities.
3. The accomplice turned state's witness and provided key evidence against the organized crime syndicate.
4. The judge sentenced the convicted murderer and his accomplice to life in prison.
5. The criminal's accomplice abandoned him at the scene of the crime, leaving him to be apprehended.
6. The undercover agent infiltrated the criminal organization, gaining the trust of the key accomplices.
7. The accomplice confessed to his involvement in the arson attack, implicating his partners.
8. The investigators pieced together the puzzle of the crime, identifying the roles of each accomplice.
9. The defense attorney argued that his client was coerced into becoming an unwilling accomplice.
10. The gang leader ensured his accomplices were well-compensated for their criminal activities.
11. The police sought to dismantle the entire network of accomplices involved in the counterfeit operation.
12. The accomplice provided an alibi for the main suspect, but their story quickly fell apart under scrutiny.
13. The accomplice's testimony shed light on the motive behind the murder.
14. The prosecutor sought maximum penalties for the accomplice, considering their active participation in the crime.