# criminology

/ˌkɹɪmɪˈnɑɫədʒi/ (US) · /kɹˌɪmɪnˈɒlədʒi/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/criminology
Updated: 2026-05-18

## Definition

the study of crime and criminals. It looks at why people commit crimes and how society can stop them.

For teachers: the scientific study of the nature, extent, causes, and control of criminal behaviour. It encompasses both the social and psychological factors that lead to crime and the legal systems designed to prevent it.

## Examples

- She decided to study criminology to help solve crimes.
- The university offers a degree in criminology that combines psychology with the legal system to understand criminal behaviour.
- Advances in criminology have shifted the focus from purely punitive measures to rehabilitation programs that address the underlying social and economic factors contributing to recidivism.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.