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Dictionaryrob
verb

rob

To take property unlawfully from someone, especially by force or threat.

The masked thief threatens the cashier and robs the store.

Etymology
robOld Frenchto plunder

The Old French verb means to plunder. The modern verb preserves unlawful taking from someone, especially through direct force or threat.

More examples

  • Someone robbed her of her purse outside the station.
  • Two armed men tried to rob the bank.
  • Police caught the suspect robbing a gas station.

Forms

rob · robs · robbed · robbing

robber noun — Someone who unlawfully takes property from others.

robbery noun — Taking someone's property by force or threat.

Similar words

steal
Names taking the property, rather than robbing its owner.
mug
Specifically means attacking and robbing someone in a public place.
burglarize
Means illegally entering a building to steal, without necessarily confronting anyone.