verb
rob
rob
verb
1
To take property from a person or place unlawfully, often through force or threat.
"Two men tried to rob the corner shop at gunpoint."
"She was robbed of her purse on the subway."
2
To unfairly deprive someone of something they deserve.
"The injury robbed him of his chance to compete."
How to Use Rob
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishTo steal from someone, often violently, or to unfairly take away a chance or achievement.
Common mistake
You rob a person or place, but you steal a thing — "rob a bank" and "steal money," not "steal a bank."
Common pairings
rob a bank
robbed blind
rob someone of something
Word Forms
robbed past tense, robs singular
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Two men tried to _____ the corner shop at gunpoint.
Etymology
From Old French robber, ultimately from a Germanic root meaning "to plunder" — the same root gives us "robe," originally spoils taken in war.