1. the scientific study of crime, criminals, and criminal behavior

Examples

• She majored in criminology to understand the causes of criminal behavior.
• The criminology professor explained different theories about why people commit crimes.
• His research in criminology focuses on juvenile delinquency.
• The university offers a master’s degree in criminology and criminal justice.
• Criminology combines elements of psychology, sociology, and law.
• The criminology department studies crime prevention strategies.