capital offense

Cultural  

1. A crime, such as murder or betrayal of one's country, that is treated so seriously that death may be considered an appropriate punishment.

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Example Sentences

Early examples date back to 18th century England’s “molly houses,” secret meeting places where people would cross dress and which were often raided by authorities when homosexuality was still a capital offense.

From Seattle Times • Feb. 1, 2024

The judge said she was reluctant to grant bond but state statute forces her hand because the charges do not include a capital offense.

From Fox News • Dec. 15, 2021

The Malicious Shooting or Stabbing Act of 1803 outlawed the “malicious using of means to procure the miscarriage of women,” and abortion after “quickening” — or fetal movement — was considered a capital offense.

From Los Angeles Times • Dec. 25, 2020

But not minding your own business is not a capital offense; nor is being thin-skinned.

From Slate • Jul. 23, 2019

In many countries it was a capital offense for anyone but the official astrologer to read the portents in the skies: a good way to overthrow a regime was to predict its downfall.

From "Cosmos" by Carl Sagan