grand larceny

noun

, Law.

1. larceny in which the value of the goods taken is above a certain legally specified amount.

grand larceny

noun

1. (formerly in England) the theft of property valued at over 12 pence. Abolished in 1827
2. (in some states of the US) the theft of property of which the value is above a specified figure, varying from state to state but usually being between $25 and $60

Word History and Origins

Origin of grand larceny¹

First recorded in 1840–50

Example Sentences

One critic noted that "when Maggie Smith is on the screen, the picture moves," and Burton afterwards teasingly described her upstaging of him as "grand larceny."

From BBC

Often, the charge is coupled with more serious felonies such as grand larceny.

From Seattle Times

Wan was arrested Friday and arraigned Saturday in Manhattan criminal court on grand larceny charges.

From Seattle Times

Michael Williams, who’s been investigating this suspected case of grand larceny.

From Los Angeles Times

He was charged with two counts of grand larceny, officials said.

From Seattle Times