Launder: meaning, definitions and examples

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launder

[ˈlɔːndər ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Verb}

money crime

To launder money means to make illegally obtained money appear legitimate through a complex series of transactions. This usually involves passing the money through various businesses or financial systems, making it difficult to trace its illicit origins. The aim is to integrate the proceeds of crime into the legitimate economy without raising suspicion. Money laundering is a serious crime that can facilitate various illegal activities, including drug trafficking and terrorism.

Synonyms

cleanse, purify, sanitize.

Examples of usage

The criminals used various offshore accounts to launder their profits.
They were arrested for trying to launder money through fake businesses.
Law enforcement agencies are cracking down on those who launder money.
The bank was implicated in a scandal where it helped clients launder millions.

^{Context #2 | Verb}

clothing care

To launder clothes refers to the process of washing and cleaning garments to remove dirt, stains, and odors. This typically involves using a washing machine or hand washing with detergent. Laundering can also include drying and ironing to make the clothes ready for wearing again. Proper laundering can help maintain the quality and lifespan of clothing.

Synonyms

clean, rinse, wash.

Examples of usage

Don't forget to launder your shirts before the trip.
She prefers to launder her clothes in cold water to save energy.
You should launder the towels after each use.
The dry cleaner agreed to launder the delicate fabric carefully.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The term originated from the French word 'lindre,' meaning 'to wash' or 'to cleanse.'
It was used in English around the early 15th century to refer to the act of washing clothes.
Over time, the meaning expanded into a metaphorical sense relating to financial activities.

Criminal Justice

Money laundering is a process that makes illegally obtained funds appear legal.
The act typically involves three stages: placement, layering, and integration.
Governments and financial institutions actively combat money laundering to prevent crime and corruption.

Pop Culture

Laundering money has been a popular theme in movies and television, often depicting criminals trying to hide their illegal gains.
Films like 'The Godfather' and series like 'Breaking Bad' showcase money laundering as part of their narratives.
The term has entered everyday language, often associated with various forms of scams and fraud.

Economics

The phenomenon of money laundering can undermine economies by enabling corruption and facilitating organized crime.
Countries with stringent financial regulations aim to reduce the accessibility of money laundering operations.
Academic studies focus on the economic costs associated with laundering illicit funds and the measures to combat it.

Psychology

Individuals involved in laundering may rationalize their actions, focusing on the 'clean' aspect rather than the illegality.
The psychological impact of participating in laundering activities can create cognitive dissonance among individuals, who perceive themselves as morally upright.
Research suggests that people involved in these activities may experience stress and fear due to the risk of getting caught.

Translations

Translations of the word "launder" in other languages:

🇵🇹 lavar

🇮🇳 धोना

🇩🇪 waschen

🇮🇩 mencuci

🇺🇦 прати

🇵🇱 prać

🇯🇵 洗う

🇫🇷 laver

🇪🇸 lavar

🇹🇷 yıkamak

🇰🇷 세탁하다

🇸🇦 غسل

🇨🇿 prát

🇸🇰 prat'

🇨🇳 洗涤

🇸🇮 prati

🇮🇸 þvo

🇰🇿 жуып тастау

🇬🇪 რეცხვა

🇦🇿 yumaq

🇲🇽 lavar

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #30,266 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.

...
30263 transiting
30264 embarrassingly
30265 twittering
30266 launder
30267 stripling
30268 hysteric
30269 spaciousness
...