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Bootleg: meaning, definitions and examples

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bootleg

 

[ ˈbuːt.lɛɡ ]

Noun / Verb
Context #1 | Noun

illegal

A bootleg is a product that is made or sold illegally, such as unauthorized copies of movies, music, or clothing.

Synonyms

counterfeit, pirated, unauthorized

Examples of usage

  • He was arrested for selling bootleg DVDs on the street corner.
  • Bootleg merchandise is often of lower quality than the original products.
Context #2 | Verb

copy illegally

To bootleg means to produce or distribute something illegally, especially unauthorized copies of media or goods.

Synonyms

copy illegally, distribute illegally, pirate

Examples of usage

  • The company was accused of bootlegging software without permission.
  • He bootlegged the concert and sold unauthorized recordings online.

Translations

Translations of the word "bootleg" in other languages:

🇵🇹 contrabando

🇮🇳 नकली

🇩🇪 Schmuggelware

🇮🇩 barang selundupan

🇺🇦 контрабанда

🇵🇱 kontrabanda

🇯🇵 密輸品 (みつゆひん)

🇫🇷 contrebande

🇪🇸 contrabando

🇹🇷 kaçak mal

🇰🇷 밀수품 (밀수품)

🇸🇦 تهريب

🇨🇿 pašované zboží

🇸🇰 pašované tovar

🇨🇳 走私货 (zǒusī huò)

🇸🇮 kontraband

🇮🇸 smyglvara

🇰🇿 контрабанда

🇬🇪 კონტრაბანდა

🇦🇿 qaçaqmal

🇲🇽 contrabando

Etymology

The term 'bootleg' originated in the United States during the Prohibition era in the early 20th century. It was initially used to describe the illegal production and distribution of alcohol. Over time, the term expanded to encompass any illegal or unauthorized activity, such as the production of counterfeit goods or unauthorized copies of media. Today, 'bootleg' is commonly used to refer to illegal or unauthorized products in various industries.

See also: boot, booties, bootlegger, bootlicker, boots, booty, freebooter, reboot.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #31,993 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.