In*fringe" (?), v. t. [imp. & p. p. Infringed (?); p. pr. & vb. n. Infringing (?).] [L. infringere; pref. in- in + frangere to break. See Fraction, and cf. Infract .]
1.
To break; to violate; to transgress; to neglect to fulfill or obey; as, to infringe a law or contract.
If the first that did the edict infringe,
Had answered for his deed.
Shak.
The peace . . . was infringed by Appius Claudius.
Golding.
2.
To hinder; to destroy; as, to infringe efficacy; to infringe delight or power.
[Obs.]
Hooker.
© Webster 1913.
In*fringe", v. i.
1.
To break, violate, or transgress some contract, rule, or law; to injure; to offend.
2.
To encroach; to trespass; -- followed by on or upon; as, to infringe upon the rights of another.
© Webster 1913.