# felony

/ˈfɛɫəni/ (US) · /fˈɛləni/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/felony
Updated: 2026-05-02

## Definition

a very serious crime, such as murder or robbery. People who commit these crimes usually face at least one year in prison.

For teachers: a category of serious crime, typically punishable by imprisonment for more than one year or by death. Distinguished from less severe offenses, known as misdemeanors, in common law jurisdictions.

## Examples

- Stealing a car is considered a felony in many places.
- The defendant was charged with a felony after the police found evidence of large-scale fraud.
- While a misdemeanor might result in a fine or short jail stay, a felony conviction often carries long-term consequences, including the loss of certain civil rights.

## Usage notes

- Commonly used with verbs like 'commit', 'charge with', or 'convict of'.

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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.