Felony (noun)

1. A serious crime, typically one punishable by imprisonment for more than one year or by death.
2. A crime of high seriousness.

Origin:

Middle english, from anglo-french felonie, from latin felonia, from felō, felon wicked person.

Examples:

1. He was convicted of a felony and sentenced to ten years in prison.
2. Burglary is considered a felony in many states.
3. Felony charges were dropped against the man.
4. The defendant pleaded guilty to a felony charge of embezzlement.
5. The crime is considered a felony as it resulted in loss of life.