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Customs Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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customs

[หˆkสŒstษ™mz ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

official procedures

Customs refers to the official procedures and inspections carried out by government authorities at borders or ports to control the movement of goods, people, and animals into and out of a country.

Synonyms

duty, levy, tariff.

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Word Description / Examples
customs

This word refers to the government authority or agency that regulates the flow of goods into and out of a country. It can also refer to the procedures and duties involved.

  • The customs officer checked my luggage thoroughly.
  • You need to declare all goods at customs when you enter the country.

Examples of usage

  • The customs officer checked our luggage at the airport.
  • You will need to declare any items of value to customs when entering the country.
Context #2 | Noun

traditions and habits

Customs also refer to the traditional practices, habits, and behaviors of a particular society or community.

Synonyms

practices, rituals, traditions.

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Word Description / Examples
customs

Describes the habitual practices of a community or society, especially in terms of social behavior and rituals.

  • It is a custom in many countries to greet people with a handshake
  • The festival is rich in local customs that have been passed down through generations
traditions

Highlights beliefs, practices, or customs that are handed down from generation to generation, emphasizing a sense of heritage.

  • It is a tradition in our family to gather for a reunion every summer
  • Many of the town's traditions date back hundreds of years
rituals

Specifically involves structured and symbolic actions, often with religious or spiritual significance, but can also be secular. Suggests a sense of ceremony.

  • The wedding ceremony was filled with beautiful, ancient rituals
  • Every morning, he has a coffee and reads the news as part of his daily rituals
practices

Emphasizes repeated actions or routines carried out by individuals or groups, often related to professional or everyday life.

  • The company has strict hiring practices to ensure fairness
  • Meditation is a daily practice for many people aiming to reduce stress

Examples of usage

  • It is customary to shake hands when meeting someone for the first time.
  • The customs of this ancient tribe are fascinating to study.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Cultural Significance

  • Every culture has unique customs that reflect their history, beliefs, and values, such as marriage rituals or food traditions.
  • Customs can change over time, blending with influences from globalization and technology.
  • In many societies, customs are preserved by storytelling and community events, ensuring traditions live on.

Psychology

  • Rituals attached to customs can provide psychological comfort, offering a sense of stability and belonging.
  • Engaging in cultural customs can strengthen group identity, enhancing social bonds among community members.
  • Studies suggest that familiar customs can reduce anxiety and provide a sense of control in times of uncertainty.

Legal Aspects

  • Certain customs can influence laws, like common law traditions found in jurisdictions such as the U.S. and the U.K.
  • Understanding local customs is crucial for diplomats and business people to navigate foreign cultures effectively.
  • International customs, like those observed by travelers, can affect trade policies and immigration procedures.

Pop Culture

  • Television shows often depict diverse customs, allowing viewers to gain insight into different cultures and lifestyles.
  • Festivals around the world showcase local customs, drawing tourists and promoting cultural exchange.
  • Social media has transformed how customs are shared, often leading to new trends that blend various cultural practices.

Origin of 'customs'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'custom' comes from the Latin word 'consuetudo', which means 'habit' or 'practice'.
  • In Middle English, it was spelled 'custume', showing how the pronunciation and meaning have evolved over time.
  • Historically, customs often formed the foundation of societal norms, influencing laws and personal behavior.

The word 'customs' originated from the Latin word 'consuetudo', meaning 'habit'. Over time, it evolved to encompass both official procedures and traditional practices. The concept of customs has been integral to human societies throughout history, shaping cultural identities and facilitating trade and travel.

See also: accustom, custom, customarily, customary, customer, customizable, customization, customize, customized, customizer, customizing.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #3,177, this word is part of upper-intermediate vocabulary. While not among the most basic terms, it appears often enough to be valuable for advanced communication.