PUBLIC ENEMY Meaning and
Definition
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Public enemy refers to an individual or group that is considered a significant threat or danger to society, often due to their actions or beliefs that are deemed damaging or detrimental to the well-being of the public at large. This term is primarily used in a sociopolitical or legal context and is synonymous with the concept of an "enemy of the state." Public enemies are often perceived as actively working against the interests, values, or security of the community or nation.
Public enemies can encompass a wide range of individuals or organizations, including criminals, terrorists, political dissidents, or groups promoting hate speech, violence, or illegal activities. Their actions typically involve defying established laws, inciting violence or unrest, seeking to overthrow the government, or posing a direct threat to the safety and stability of society.
To be labeled a public enemy often results in increased scrutiny from law enforcement agencies, as well as the implementation of specific measures to limit their influence, disrupt their activities, and safeguard the public. Such measures may include surveillance, targeted investigations, public campaigns to denounce and discredit their ideologies, and legal actions to bring them to justice.
It is important to note that the label of "public enemy" is a subjective one and can vary depending on the political and social climate of a particular society. Individuals or groups labeled as public enemies may also have significant support from certain segments of the population who share their beliefs or ideologies.
Common Misspellings for PUBLIC ENEMY
- oublic enemy
- lublic enemy
- -ublic enemy
- 0ublic enemy
- pyblic enemy
- phblic enemy
- pjblic enemy
- piblic enemy
- p8blic enemy
- p7blic enemy
- puvlic enemy
- punlic enemy
- puhlic enemy
- puglic enemy
- pubkic enemy
- pubpic enemy
- puboic enemy
- publuc enemy
- publjc enemy
- publkc enemy
Etymology of PUBLIC ENEMY
The term "public enemy" originates from the Latin word "publicus" meaning "pertaining to the people" or "common". It evolved from the Old French word "enemi" (meaning "enemy") which was derived from the Latin word "inimicus". In English, "public enemy" became a commonly used phrase during the late 16th century to refer to someone who was considered a threat to the well-being, safety, or interests of the general public. It became particularly popularized in the United States during the Prohibition era, referring to notorious criminals who were wanted by the authorities.
Idioms with the word PUBLIC ENEMY
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public enemy number one
The idiom "public enemy number one" refers to someone who is considered the most dangerous and harmful person in a particular society or community. They are viewed as a significant threat to the public's well-being or security.
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public enemy number one/no. 1
The idiom "public enemy number one/no. 1" refers to a person or group that is widely regarded as the most dangerous or wanted criminal, or an individual who is seen as a major threat or enemy to the public or a particular society.
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