Finesentence mobile logo
Sign in Login / Register

Confiscate Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

🚔
Add to dictionary

confiscate

[ˈkɒn.fɪ.skeɪt ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

government action

To confiscate means to take away something from someone, usually as a penalty or punishment. It is often done by authorities or officials to seize property, assets, or goods that are considered illegal or unauthorized.

Synonyms

appropriate, confiscatory, seize.

Examples of usage

  • The police confiscated the smuggled goods at the border.
  • The government confiscated the corrupt official's assets.
  • The court ordered to confiscate the criminal's bank accounts.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Origin of 'confiscate'

The word 'confiscate' originates from the Latin word 'confiscatus', past participle of 'confiscare', which means 'to seize or plunder'. The concept of confiscation has a long history, dating back to ancient times when rulers or governments would seize property as a form of punishment or control. Throughout history, confiscation has been used as a means of enforcing laws and regulations, often targeting smugglers, criminals, or individuals deemed to be in violation of the law.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #23,587, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.