Definition
Someone convicted of multiple crimes who faces enhanced sentencing or additional restrictions—basically, 'you keep breaking the law so we're going to make it extra painful.'
Example Usage
The defendant was classified as a habitual offender due to three prior felony convictions within ten years.
Origin
From Latin 'habitualis' meaning 'customary or frequent'
Fun Fact
Some states have three-strikes laws making the third felony an automatic life sentence, effectively creating permanent incapacitation for repeat offenders.
Source: Criminal Sentencing and Recidivism Law
Related Terms
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See “Habitual Offender” in Corporate Speak, Gen-Z Slang, Pirate Speak, and more.
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