infringe

verb in·fringe \in-ˈfrinj\

: to do something that does not obey or follow (a rule, law, etc.) ( chiefly US )

: to wrongly limit or restrict (something, such as another person's rights)

in·fringedin·fring·ing

Full Definition of INFRINGE

transitive verb

: to encroach upon in a way that violates law or the rights of another <infringe a patent>

obsolete : defeat, frustrate

intransitive verb

: encroach —used with on or upon <infringe on our rights>

— in·fring·er noun

See infringe defined for English-language learners

See infringe defined for kids

Origin of INFRINGE

Medieval Latin infringere, from Latin, to break, crush, from in- + frangere to break — more at break

First Known Use: 1513

Synonym Discussion of INFRINGE

trespass, encroach, infringe, invade mean to make inroads upon the property, territory, or rights of another. trespass implies an unwarranted or unlawful intrusion <hunters trespassing on farmland>. encroach suggests gradual or stealthy entrance upon another's territory or usurpation of another's rights or possessions <the encroaching settlers displacing the native peoples>. infringe implies an encroachment clearly violating a right or prerogative <infringing a copyright>. invade implies a hostile and injurious entry into the territory or sphere of another <accused of invading their privacy>.