Mug Book - English Definition & Meaning

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Definition

A "mug book" is a collection of photographs of people, especially criminals, used for identification purposes. Think of it as a physical version of a mug file, like a police lineup in a book. These books are used by law enforcement to identify suspects or witnesses. They're a classic tool in crime investigation. 👮

Etymology

"Mug" is slang for face. "Book" comes from the Old English "boc," referring to a collection of written or printed sheets. Thus, a 'mug book' is simply a collection of faces compiled into book form. 📜

Related Words

Examples

  • "The detective showed the witness a mug book to see if she could identify the suspect."
  • "Mug books are used in police stations to help identify criminals."
  • "The old mug book was filled with black and white photos."
  • "He flipped through the mug book, searching for a familiar face. 🕵️"

Anecdote / Story

Imagine you're watching a classic detective movie. The detective pulls out a dusty mug book to find a suspect who's been committing robberies around town. As he flips through the pages, he finally spots the familiar face of the notorious criminal, leading him closer to solving the case! 🕵️‍♂️

Encouragement

Mug books are a historical tool in law enforcement, and understanding their role can provide insight into the history of crime investigation. Keep exploring the world of crime and justice, and you'll gain a deeper understanding of society! ✨

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