Definitions:

1. A legal term used to describe a person who has been convicted of multiple criminal offenses and has demonstrated a pattern of repeated criminal behavior over time. NOUN
   • The prison system has difficulty finding effective ways to deter habitual criminals from committing future crimes.
2. One convicted of a crime who has a certain number of prior convictions for offenses of a specified kind and is thereby under some statutes subject to an increased penalty. NOUN
   • Sentencing guidelines are often harsher for habitual criminals with a history of repeated offenses.
3. Someone who has been convicted of one or more crimes in the past and is currently facing new charges. NOUN
   • The habitual criminal was apprehended after multiple break-in attempts in the neighborhood.
4. Someone who is repeatedly arrested for criminal behavior, especially the same criminal behavior. NOUN
   • The habitual criminal was known for their meticulous planning and evasiveness when committing crimes.

Synonyms:

• career criminal
• habitual offender
• recurring criminal
• repeat offender
• repeater