1. A communicated intent to inflict harm or loss on another or on another’s property, esp. one that might diminish a person’s freedom to act voluntarily or with lawful consent (a kidnapper’s threats of violence). [Cases: Extortion and Threats 25.
1. C.J.S. Threats and Unlawful Communications §§ 2–20.]
terroristic threat. A threat to commit any crime of violence with the purpose of (1) terrorizing another, (2) causing the evacuation of a building, place of assembly, or facility of public transportation, (3) causing serious public inconvenience, or (4) recklessly disregarding the risk of causing such terror or inconvenience. Model Penal Code § 211. See TERRORISM. [Cases: Extortion and Threats 25.
1. C.J.S. Threats and Unlawful Communications §§ 2–20.]
2. An indication of an approaching menace (the threat of bankruptcy).
3. A person or thing that might well cause harm (Mrs. Harrington testified that she had never viewed her husband as a threat). — threaten, vb. — threatening, adj.
