Buccaneer: meaning, definitions and examples

Commonly refers to pirates who attacked Spanish ships and settlements in the Caribbean during the 17th century. Often used in historical or adventurous contexts.

• The buccaneer sailed the Caribbean, plundering Spanish ports and ships.
• In the golden age of piracy, many feared the ruthless buccaneers.

General term for someone who attacks and robs ships at sea. Can be used in both historical and modern contexts.

• The pirate raised the Jolly Roger, signaling another attack.
• Modern pirates still pose a threat in certain parts of the world today.

Refers to a private person or ship authorized by a government during wartime to attack foreign shipping. It has a slightly more legal and formal connotation compared to 'pirate'.

• The privateer had a letter of marque from the king, legitimizing its raids on enemy ships.
• During the war, many privateers preyed on merchant vessels of rival nations.

Refers specifically to pirates operating in the Mediterranean Sea, particularly those from the Barbary Coast. Often used in historical or naval contexts.

• The corsairs of the Barbary Coast were notorious for their swift ships and daring raids.
• European navies were often in conflict with corsairs during the 16th and 17th centuries.

Describes a person who engages in piracy or looting, often used in a broader and less specific sense than other terms. Can also imply reckless or lawless behavior.

• The freebooter amassed considerable wealth through daring thefts.
• In the chaos of the conflict, freebooters took advantage of the lack of law enforcement.