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Laundered Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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laundered

[หˆlษ”หndษ™rd ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

money cleaning

To launder money means to conceal the origins of illegally obtained money, typically by passing it through a complex sequence of banking transfers or commercial transactions. The aim is to make it appear as though the money comes from a legitimate source.

Synonyms

clean, disguise, sanitize.

Examples of usage

  • The criminals laundered their money through various shell companies.
  • Law enforcement agencies are working to track down those who launder money.
  • He was arrested for attempting to launder large sums of money.
Context #2 | Verb

clothing washing

To launder clothing means to wash and iron garments or textiles, typically in a machine or by hand. This process cleans the fabric and prepares it for storage or wear.

Synonyms

clean, cleanse, wash.

Examples of usage

  • I always launder my clothes before packing them for a trip.
  • She prefers to launder her delicate fabrics by hand.
  • Make sure to launder the towels after each use.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Cultural Practices

  • Different cultures have unique rituals around washing clothes, such as hanging them out to dry as a sign of good fortune.
  • In Japan, there are also specific times considered lucky for doing laundry, which are rooted in cultural beliefs.
  • The practice of laundering has evolved with technology, from hand-washing to washing machines, simplifying the process.

Psychology

  • The act of washing can be therapeutic, providing a sense of cleansing not only for clothes but also symbolically for the mind.
  • Research suggests that people often associate cleanliness with personal value and mental clarity, leading to positive feelings afterward.
  • Some studies indicate that the repetitive motion of laundering can promote mindfulness and reduce stress.

Literature

  • Laundering is often used as a metaphor in literature, representing purification or a fresh start after a difficult period.
  • William Faulkner's works explore the idea of cleansing through characters who seek to 'launder' their past decisions.
  • Many poems use the imagery of washing or laundering to communicate themes of renewal and redemption.

Environmental Impact

  • Laundering has significant ecological effects; traditional washing methods can consume a lot of water and energy.
  • The rise of eco-friendly detergents and cold washes is helping to reduce the negative impact on the environment.
  • Innovative technologies, like washing machines designed to use less water and energy, are becoming more popular as sustainability efforts grow.

Origin of 'laundered'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Old French word 'launder,' which means 'to wash.'
  • It can be traced back to the Latin word 'lavare,' meaning 'to wash,' showing its long history in cleaning.
  • Originally, it referred specifically to washing clothes before expanding to other contexts.

The word 'laundered' originates from the Old French 'lavander', meaning 'to wash'. The term shifted into English in the early 15th century, initially referring to the act of washing clothes and textiles. It eventually expanded its meaning, particularly in the 20th century, to include the context of illegal financial activities such as money laundering. This term reflects the nefarious methods of cleaning illicit funds to make them appear legitimate, contrasting with its original, more innocent meaning of washing clothes.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #27,750, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.