noun

transgressor

tranz-GRES-er/trænzˈɡresər/

a person who breaks a law, rule, or moral boundary

The transgressor climbs over the gate despite the prohibition on entry.

An adult deliberately climbs over a closed pedestrian gate beside a clearly readable NO ENTRY sign.

Etymology

transLatinacross, beyond

+gressLatinto walk, go

+orLatinperson who acts

A transgressor is, in the underlying image, someone who steps beyond a boundary. Applied to the limits imposed by law or morality, this became a name for a sinner or rule-breaker.

In context

Historical Justice3:47

to demonstrate to the entire community that order had been restored, that the transgressor had been identified, that accountability had been established.

The Pillory and Stocks: Public Punishment in Medieval Europe

More examples

The judge orders the transgressor to pay a fine.
Even minor transgressors face disciplinary action.
The sermon calls on transgressors to seek forgiveness.

Forms

transgressor · transgressors

transgress verb — to violate a law, rule, or moral boundary

transgression noun — an act that violates a rule or boundary

Similar words

offender: More common, especially for someone who commits a crime.
violator: Emphasizes breaking a specific law, rule, or agreement.
sinner: Specifically describes someone who breaks religious or moral laws.