transgressio

Transgressio is a Latin noun that generally denotes crossing over a boundary or stepping beyond a limit. Etymologically, it combines trans- meaning across with gradi, to go or step, giving the sense of an act that goes beyond a defined border. The term can refer to a physical crossing as well as to violations of rules, laws, or norms.

In classical and medieval Latin texts, transgressio appeared in both mundane and formal contexts. It could describe a literal crossing, such as crossing a boundary or frontier, and it was also used to signify moral, legal, or divine offenses—breaches of statutes, oaths, or commandments. In religious and legal literature, the concept aligned with ideas of fault or wrongdoing resulting from such breaches.

Today, the word is most often encountered in historical, philological, or doctrinal discussions of Latin sources. In broader scholarly and popular usage, its English cognate transgression is more common, especially in sociology, ethics, and cultural studies, where it refers to acts that violate social norms, taboos, or moral codes. Transgression can be framed as a violation to be sanctioned, as a challenge to established boundaries, or as a provocative gesture that invites critique or change.

Related concepts include boundary, norm, taboo, violation, and breach. While transgressio remains primarily a Latin term used in historical or linguistic contexts, its overarching idea—crossing a limit—pervades many disciplines that study rules, ethics, and social order.