1. a person who illegally enters a building with the intent to steal or commit another crime
Usage: also called a burglar; common in legal and law enforcement contexts
2. a tool or device used to break into buildings or locks
Usage: less common than sense 1

Examples

• The police arrested the housebreaker after he was caught on security camera footage.
• Housebreakers often target homes that appear unoccupied for long periods.
• Installing an alarm system can deter housebreakers from attempting a break-in.
• The detective investigated several housebreaker incidents in the neighborhood.
• Housebreakers typically look for easy entry points like unlocked windows and doors.
• The community organized a watch program to prevent housebreaker activity.