What does the term 'larceny' refer to?

Larceny specifically refers to the unlawful taking of someone else's property with the intention to permanently deprive the owner of that property. It is a legal term used primarily in the context of theft crimes and can encompass various forms of theft, including stealing personal items, shoplifting, and burglary, as long as the intent to permanently deprive the owner is present. By defining larceny in this manner, it highlights the nature of this crime, which is focused solely on theft rather than any other illegal actions, such as assault, fraud, or vandalism, which involve different elements and legal considerations. Understanding this definition is essential for recognizing the specific crime of theft in legal contexts.