felon
word
Definition
A person who has been convicted of a serious crime, known as a felony. In the US legal system, felonies are more severe than misdemeanors.
Usage & Nuances
Legal term, mainly US English. A "convicted felon" has a criminal record that affects voting rights, gun ownership, and employment. "Felony" is the crime, "felon" is the person. Common collocations: "convicted felon", "violent felon", "nonviolent felon".
Example Sentences
A convicted felon cannot own a firearm in most US states.
basic
The police arrested the felon after a long investigation.
basic
Being a felon makes it hard to find employment.
basic
He's a former felon who turned his life around and now mentors at-risk youth.
natural
In some states, felons can have their voting rights restored after serving their sentence.
natural
The background check revealed that the applicant was a felon.
natural