Top 41 Slang For Criminal – Meaning & Usage

Criminals have their own language, a secret code that sets them apart from the rest of society. If you’ve ever been curious about the slang used in the underworld, look no further. Our team has delved into the shadows to bring you a revealing list of the top slang for criminals. Get ready to uncover a whole new world of words that will leave you intrigued and informed.

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1. Bandit

A bandit is a person who engages in illegal activities, often involving theft or robbery. The term is often associated with individuals who operate outside the law and are seen as rebellious or lawless.

For example, “The bandit robbed the bank and made off with a bag of cash.”
In a discussion about famous outlaws, someone might mention, “Jesse James was a notorious bandit during the Wild West era.”
A person might use the term in a figurative sense, saying, “I feel like a bandit whenever I find a great deal at the store.”

2. Felon

A felon is a person who has been convicted of a serious crime, typically a felony. The term is often used to describe individuals who have been found guilty of offenses such as murder, robbery, or drug trafficking.

For instance, “He was sentenced to 10 years in prison for being a repeat felon.”
In a discussion about criminal justice, someone might argue, “Felon rights should be restored after they have served their sentence and demonstrated rehabilitation.”
A news article might report, “The police apprehended a known felon in connection with the recent string of burglaries.”

3. Con

A con is a slang term for a convict, which refers to a person who has been found guilty of a crime and sentenced to imprisonment. The term is often used to describe individuals who have a history of criminal behavior or who are skilled at deceiving others.

For example, “He’s a con artist who swindled people out of their life savings.”
In a discussion about prison life, someone might say, “The cons in that facility have formed their own hierarchy.”
A person might use the term in a figurative sense, saying, “Don’t be a con and try to cheat the system.”

4. Ruffian

A ruffian is a term used to describe a violent or rough person, often involved in criminal activities. The term is often used to refer to individuals who engage in street fighting, gang activity, or other forms of antisocial behavior.

For instance, “The ruffian attacked an innocent bystander during the altercation.”
In a discussion about urban crime, someone might mention, “The neighborhood has been plagued by ruffians and gang violence.”
A person might use the term in a figurative sense, saying, “He may seem tough, but he’s just a ruffian at heart.”

5. Gangster

A gangster is a term used to describe a member of a criminal organization, often involved in organized crime such as drug trafficking, extortion, or racketeering. The term is often associated with individuals who operate outside the law and are known for their involvement in illegal activities.

For example, “The gangster controlled the city’s underground gambling scene.”
In a discussion about the Prohibition era, someone might mention, “Al Capone was one of the most notorious gangsters of his time.”
A person might use the term in a figurative sense, saying, “He thinks he’s a gangster, but he’s just a small-time crook.”

6. Mobster

A mobster is a member of an organized crime syndicate, often involved in activities such as extortion, racketeering, and illegal gambling. The term is commonly associated with the American Mafia.

For example, in a movie about organized crime, a character might say, “He’s a notorious mobster who controls the city.”
In a discussion about historical crime figures, someone might mention, “Al Capone was one of the most infamous mobsters of his time.”
A true crime enthusiast might say, “I find the stories of mobsters and their operations fascinating.”

7. Lawbreaker

A lawbreaker is someone who violates the law or commits a crime. It is a general term used to describe individuals who engage in illegal activities.

For instance, a news headline might read, “Police arrest lawbreaker in connection with the robbery.”
In a conversation about crime rates, someone might say, “We need stricter laws to deter lawbreakers.”
A lawyer might refer to their client as a lawbreaker, stating, “My client deeply regrets his actions as a lawbreaker.”

8. Miscreant

A miscreant is a person who behaves badly or engages in immoral or harmful actions. It is a term often used to describe someone who breaks the law or acts in a malicious manner.

For example, a teacher might scold a student by saying, “You are nothing but a miscreant disrupting the class.”
In a discussion about neighborhood safety, someone might warn, “Be cautious of any suspicious miscreants in the area.”
A journalist reporting on a crime might describe the perpetrator as a miscreant, stating, “The miscreant was apprehended by the police after a high-speed chase.”

9. Rogue

A rogue is an individual who behaves in a dishonest or unprincipled way, often disregarding societal norms or laws. It is a term used to describe someone who is a rebel or a nonconformist.

For instance, a character in a novel might be described as a charming rogue with a penchant for trouble.
In a conversation about historical figures, someone might mention, “Billy the Kid was a notorious rogue of the Wild West.”
A person might jokingly refer to themselves as a rogue, saying, “I’m a bit of a rogue when it comes to following the rules.”

10. Scoundrel

A scoundrel is a person who is dishonest, unscrupulous, or morally corrupt. It is a term often used to describe someone who engages in deceitful or malicious behavior.

For example, a parent might scold their child by saying, “You are acting like a scoundrel with your constant lies.”
In a discussion about politics, someone might criticize a corrupt politician by calling them a scoundrel.
A journalist reporting on a scandal might refer to the individuals involved as scoundrels, stating, “The scoundrels behind the embezzlement scheme have been brought to justice.”

11. Villain

A villain is a person who engages in immoral or criminal activities. It is often used to describe someone who is the antagonist or antagonist-like figure in a story or situation.

For example, in a superhero movie, the villain is the main antagonist that the hero must defeat.
In a crime novel, the detective might be trying to catch the villain who committed a series of murders.
In a discussion about history, someone might refer to Adolf Hitler as one of the most notorious villains in human history.

12. Hooligan

A hooligan is a person who engages in rowdy, violent, or destructive behavior. It is often used to describe someone who causes trouble or disrupts the peace.

For instance, during a soccer match, hooligans may engage in fights and vandalism.
In a school setting, a group of students might be labeled as hooligans if they frequently disrupt classes and engage in destructive behavior.
A news article might report, “Hooligans clashed with police during the protest, causing significant damage to property.”

13. Hood

Hood is a slang term for a criminal or someone involved in illegal activities. It is often used to refer to someone from a specific neighborhood or urban area.

For example, in a crime movie, one character might say to another, “Watch out for that hood, he’s dangerous.”
In a news report about a robbery, the suspect might be described as a local hood.
A police officer might use the term to refer to someone they suspect of being involved in criminal activities, saying, “We’ve been keeping an eye on that hood for a while now.”

14. Ne’er-do-well

A ne’er-do-well is a person who is lazy, unproductive, or unsuccessful in their pursuits. It can also be used to describe someone who is constantly getting into trouble or engaging in questionable activities.

For instance, a parent might say to their child, “Stop being such a ne’er-do-well and start studying.”
In a comedy movie, a character might be portrayed as a lovable ne’er-do-well who always finds themselves in humorous situations.
A friend might jokingly say to another, “You’re such a ne’er-do-well, always late and never getting anything done.”

15. Malefactor

A malefactor is a person who commits a crime or engages in wrongful behavior. It is often used to describe someone who has been found guilty of a criminal offense.

For example, in a court case, the judge might address the defendant as a malefactor.
In a news article about a robbery, the suspect might be referred to as the alleged malefactor.
A lawyer might use the term to describe their client’s actions, saying, “My client deeply regrets his role as a malefactor in this unfortunate incident.”

16. Blackguard

This term refers to a person who is considered to be a scoundrel or rogue, often involved in criminal activities or deceitful behavior.

For example, “He is a blackguard who cheated his way to the top.”
In a historical context, the term might be used to describe a notorious criminal, such as “The blackguard was known for his acts of theft and deception.”
A person might use the term to express their disapproval of someone’s actions, saying “He’s behaving like a blackguard, taking advantage of innocent people.”

17. Knave

A knave is an untrustworthy person, often involved in dishonest or criminal activities.

For instance, “He is a knave who will stop at nothing to achieve his goals.”
In a discussion about a person’s character, one might say, “He may seem charming, but deep down, he’s a knave.”
A person might use the term to express their disappointment or anger towards someone’s actions, saying “I can’t believe he betrayed us like that. What a knave!”

18. Scallywag

A scallywag is a term used to describe a mischievous or deceitful person, often involved in petty crimes or acts of trickery.

For example, “He’s always up to something. Such a scallywag.”
In a playful context, the term might be used to describe a person who enjoys pulling pranks or playing tricks, such as “He’s the resident scallywag, always keeping us on our toes.”
A person might use the term affectionately to describe a friend who is known for their mischievous behavior, saying “He’s a scallywag, but we love him for it.”

19. Scalawag

A scalawag is a term used to describe a disreputable person, often involved in dishonest or criminal activities.

For instance, “He’s a scalawag who will do anything for personal gain.”
In a discussion about someone’s character, one might say, “He may seem charming, but he’s actually a scalawag.”
A person might use the term to express their frustration or annoyance towards someone’s actions, saying “I can’t believe he lied to us again. What a scalawag!”

20. Rapscallion

A rapscallion is a term used to describe a rogue or scoundrel, often involved in mischievous or criminal activities.

For example, “He’s always causing trouble. Such a rapscallion.”
In a playful context, the term might be used to describe a person who enjoys playing pranks or getting into harmless mischief, such as “He’s a lovable rapscallion, always keeping us entertained.”
A person might use the term affectionately to describe a friend who is known for their mischievous behavior, saying “He’s a rapscallion, but we wouldn’t have it any other way.”

21. Rascal

A rascal is someone who engages in mischievous or playful behavior, often causing trouble or annoyance to others.

For example, “That rascal of a child keeps pulling pranks on his classmates.”
A person might affectionately say, “You little rascal, always getting into trouble.”
In a comedic movie, a character might be described as a “loveable rascal” who constantly finds themselves in hilarious predicaments.

22. Scamp

A scamp is someone who is playful and mischievous, often getting into minor trouble or causing harmless mischief.

For instance, “He’s such a scamp, always playing practical jokes on his friends.”
A parent might say, “My little scamp is always finding new ways to entertain himself.”
In a lighthearted comedy, a character might be described as a “charming scamp” who brings laughter to everyone around them.

23. Trickster

A trickster is someone who uses deception and cunning to achieve their goals or manipulate others.

For example, “He’s a master trickster, always finding a way to outsmart his opponents.”
A person might warn, “Beware of tricksters who try to con you out of your money.”
In folklore and mythology, trickster characters often serve as clever and mischievous figures who challenge authority and conventions.

24. Charlatan

A charlatan is someone who pretends to have knowledge or skills they do not possess, often with the intention of deceiving others.

For instance, “He’s a charlatan posing as a doctor, performing medical procedures without proper qualifications.”
A person might say, “Don’t trust that charlatan, he’s just trying to sell you a fake product.”
In historical contexts, charlatans were often associated with traveling medicine shows and snake oil salesmen.

25. Swindler

A swindler is someone who cheats or defrauds others, often through deceptive schemes or dishonest practices.

For example, “He’s a notorious swindler, known for tricking people out of their money.”
A person might warn, “Watch out for swindlers who promise quick riches but only seek to exploit you.”
In a crime novel, a character might be described as a “master swindler” who pulls off elaborate cons.

26. Fraudster

This term refers to someone who engages in fraudulent activities, such as deceiving others for personal gain or financial benefit. A fraudster often uses deceit or trickery to obtain money, goods, or services from unsuspecting victims.

For example, “The fraudster convinced people to invest in a fake business venture.”
In a discussion about online scams, someone might warn, “Beware of fraudsters posing as online sellers.”
A news article might report, “The fraudster was arrested for running a Ponzi scheme.”

27. Con artist

A con artist is someone who uses deception or manipulation to cheat or defraud others. They often gain the trust of their victims before taking advantage of them for personal gain.

For instance, “The con artist convinced people to buy fake paintings by famous artists.”
In a conversation about scams, someone might say, “Don’t fall for the tricks of a con artist.”
A movie might feature a character who says, “I’m a master con artist, always one step ahead of the law.”

28. Grifter

A grifter is a person who engages in fraudulent schemes or cons to deceive others and make money through dishonest means. They often use charm and manipulation to gain the trust of their victims.

For example, “The grifter posed as a wealthy investor to swindle people out of their savings.”
In a discussion about confidence tricks, someone might say, “A skilled grifter can convince anyone to part with their money.”
A TV show might feature a character who says, “I’ve been a grifter my whole life, always looking for the next mark.”

29. Snake

A snake is a term used to describe someone who is deceitful, untrustworthy, or sneaky. It implies that the person cannot be trusted and may betray others for personal gain.

For instance, “Watch out for that snake, he’ll stab you in the back.”
In a conversation about dishonest people, someone might say, “Don’t trust that guy, he’s a snake.”
A book might describe a character as, “He had a reputation for being a snake, always looking out for his own interests.”

30. Snake in the grass

The phrase “snake in the grass” is used to describe someone who appears harmless or friendly but is actually deceitful or treacherous. It implies that the person is a hidden threat, ready to betray or harm others.

For example, “Be careful, there’s a snake in the grass waiting to take advantage of you.”
In a discussion about trust, someone might warn, “Don’t be fooled by a snake in the grass.”
A poem might use the metaphor of a snake in the grass to represent a hidden danger or betrayal.

31. Snake oil salesman

This term refers to a person who deceives others, often by selling fraudulent or ineffective products. It originated from the practice of selling “snake oil,” which was claimed to have miraculous health benefits but was actually ineffective.

For example, someone might say, “Don’t trust that snake oil salesman. His products don’t actually work.”
In a discussion about scams, a person might warn, “Be careful of falling for a snake oil salesman’s promises.”
Another might comment, “Snake oil salesmen prey on vulnerable people looking for quick fixes.”

32. Cheat

This term refers to a person who acts dishonestly or unfairly in order to gain an advantage or deceive others. It can apply to various situations, such as cheating in a game or cheating in a relationship.

For instance, someone might say, “He’s a cheat. He always finds a way to bend the rules.”
In a discussion about academic dishonesty, a person might say, “Cheating is never the right solution.”
Another might comment, “Cheats often get caught eventually and face the consequences.”

33. Deceiver

This term refers to a person who tricks or deceives others for personal gain. Con artists are skilled manipulators who often use charm and persuasion to exploit their victims.

For example, someone might say, “Watch out for that deceiver. He’s known for running scams.”
In a discussion about online scams, a person might warn, “Don’t fall for the tricks of a con artist.”
Another might comment, “Deceivers can be very convincing and make you question your own judgment.”

34. Impostor

This term refers to a person who pretends to be someone else in order to deceive others. Impostors often adopt false identities or claim qualifications or achievements they do not possess.

For instance, someone might say, “That impostor tricked everyone into thinking they were a doctor.”
In a discussion about identity theft, a person might warn, “Be cautious of sharing personal information online to avoid impostors.”
Another might comment, “Impostors can cause significant harm and damage trust.”

35. Culprit

This term refers to the person who is responsible for committing a crime or wrongdoing. It is often used to identify the individual who is at fault or to assign blame for a specific act.

For example, someone might say, “The police are still searching for the culprit of the robbery.”
In a discussion about a mystery novel, a person might speculate, “I think the culprit is the butler.”
Another might comment, “Identifying the culprit is crucial for bringing justice and closure to a case.”

36. Perp

This term is short for “perpetrator” and is used to refer to a person who has committed a crime or is suspected of committing a crime.

For example, in a police investigation, an officer might say, “We’re looking for the perp who robbed the convenience store.”
In a news report, a journalist might write, “The perp was apprehended by police after a high-speed chase.”
A detective might say, “We need to find evidence to link the perp to the crime scene.”

37. Conman

This term is a combination of “confidence” and “man” and refers to a person who deceives others by gaining their trust and then exploiting them for financial gain.

For instance, a conman might approach someone on the street and say, “I have a great investment opportunity for you.”
In a movie about scams, a character might say, “The conman used his charm to convince people to give him their life savings.”
Someone who has been scammed might say, “I can’t believe I fell for the conman’s lies.”

38. Scammer

This term is used to describe a person who engages in fraudulent activities, often online, to deceive others and obtain personal information or money.

For example, a scammer might send an email pretending to be a bank and ask for login credentials.
In a discussion about online security, someone might say, “Be careful of scammers who try to trick you into giving them your credit card information.”
A victim of a scam might warn others by saying, “I was scammed by a fake charity. Don’t make the same mistake.”

39. Wrongdoer

This term is a general term used to refer to a person who has done something wrong or committed an offense, whether it’s a minor infraction or a serious crime.

For instance, a teacher might say to a student, “You are the wrongdoer in this situation. You need to take responsibility for your actions.”
In a court case, a lawyer might argue, “The evidence clearly shows that the defendant is the wrongdoer.”
A parent might say to a child, “We need to teach you right from wrong and help you grow into a responsible adult.”

40. Hustler

This term is often used to describe a person who uses clever or deceitful methods to obtain money or other benefits from others.

For example, a hustler might approach someone on the street and say, “I can guess which card you’re thinking of. Bet you $20.”
In a discussion about street scams, someone might say, “Watch out for hustlers who try to sell you fake designer goods.”
A victim of a hustle might say, “I lost a lot of money to a smooth-talking hustler. Don’t fall for their tricks.”

41. Con man

A con man is a person who deceives others by gaining their trust and then exploiting that trust for personal gain. The term “con” is short for “confidence,” referring to the trust or confidence that the con man manipulates.

For example, a con man might pose as a wealthy businessman and convince others to invest in a fake business venture.
In a discussion about famous con men, someone might mention, “Frank Abagnale, the con man portrayed in the movie ‘Catch Me If You Can,’ was known for his ability to assume different identities.”
A person warning others about potential scams might say, “Be careful of anyone who promises quick and easy money. They could be a con man.”