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Mobster Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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mobster

[หˆmษ’bstษ™ ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

criminal activities

A mobster is a member of a criminal gang, especially one involved in organized crime.

Synonyms

gangster, mafioso, thug.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
mobster

Use 'mobster' when referring to a member of a criminal organization, typically involved in organized crime. It has a somewhat casual, even classic connotation, fitting for stories or shows about crime.

  • The old mobster ran the city for over three decades.
  • The movie depicted the life of a notorious mobster.
gangster

Use 'gangster' when talking about a criminal who is part of a gang. This term spans a broader range of criminal activities and is often used in modern contexts or when referencing historical figures from the early 20th century.

  • Al Capone was one of the most famous gangsters in American history.
  • The neighborhood was controlled by a group of gangsters.
mafioso

Reserve 'mafioso' for describing a member of the Mafia, a specific type of organized crime syndicate originating in Italy. This term has a more precise ethnic and organizational connotation.

  • The law enforcement agents finally captured a high-ranking mafioso.
  • The movie scene accurately portrayed the life of a Sicilian mafioso.
thug

Use 'thug' to describe someone who engages in violent criminal behavior, often as part of a gang. Unlike the others, it has a negative and less organized connotation, implying brute force and intimidation tactics.

  • A group of thugs robbed the convenience store last night.
  • He was known as a violent thug in his youth.

Examples of usage

  • The mobster was arrested for racketeering.
  • The mobster ordered a hit on his rival.
  • The mobster controlled the drug trade in the city.
Context #2 | Noun

organized crime

A mobster is a criminal who is part of a structured criminal organization.

Synonyms

criminal, crook, hoodlum.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
mobster

This term is best used when referring to a member of an organized crime group, often involved in activities like illegal gambling, drug trafficking, or racketeering. It is often used in a rather dramatic or cinematic context, and can evoke an image of a sophisticated and dangerous individual.

  • The police have been trying to take down the city's most notorious mobster for years
  • The movie depicted the rise and fall of a powerful mobster in the 1920s
criminal

This term is general and can be used to describe anyone who commits a crime, regardless of the severity or nature of the crime. It is neutral and factual, often used in legal or news contexts.

  • The criminal was arrested for burglary
  • She spent years working with criminals in a rehabilitation program
hoodlum

This term is usually used to describe a young, often aggressive delinquent involved in minor crimes and vandalism. It carries a slightly negative and old-fashioned connotation, often bringing to mind images of juvenile gangs or street thugs.

  • A group of hoodlums was causing trouble in the neighborhood
  • In his youth, he was known as a hoodlum before turning his life around
crook

This term tends to have a mildly negative and sometimes informal connotation. It is often used to describe someone who engages in dishonest or illegal activities, especially theft or deceit. It can be used casually or colloquially.

  • The politician was exposed as a crook after the scandal
  • He realized he'd been swindled by a crook pretending to sell rare antiques

Examples of usage

  • The mobster was known for his connections to the mafia.
  • The mobster was feared for his ruthless tactics.
  • The mobster operated in the shadows, avoiding law enforcement.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Historical Context

  • The rise of mobsters can be traced to the increase in illegal activities, especially during Prohibition when alcohol was banned.
  • Notable mobsters, such as Al Capone, became infamous figures in American history, often regarded as both criminals and folk heroes.
  • In the post-World War II era, organized crime expanded into various illegal enterprises, from drug trafficking to extortion.

Pop Culture

  • Movies like 'The Godfather' and 'Goodfellas' portray mobsters as complex characters, exploring their powerful yet dangerous lifestyles.
  • Television shows like 'The Sopranos' have brought a more nuanced view of mobster life, blending crime drama with personal struggles.
  • The image of a mobster often includes classic elements like fedoras, flashy cars, and cigar smoking, contributing to their notorious persona.

Psychology

  • Studies show that individuals involved in organized crime often exhibit traits of charisma, leadership, and manipulation, attracting followers.
  • The social dynamics within crime groups can resemble those of cults, where loyalty and fear play significant roles in maintaining control.
  • Research on risk-taking behaviors suggests that mobsters may engage in illegal activities due to a combination of economic opportunity and thrill-seeking.

Law Enforcement

  • Law enforcement agencies have developed specialized task forces, such as the FBI's organized crime divisions, to combat mob activities.
  • Asset forfeiture laws allow authorities to seize the property gained through illegal activities, disrupting mob finances.
  • Witness protection programs have been established to safeguard individuals who testify against mobsters, often risking their lives for justice.

Origin of 'mobster'

Main points about word origin

  • The term 'mobster' emerged in the early 20th century as a slang term for criminals involved in organized crime.
  • It is derived from 'mob,' which originally referred to a disorderly crowd or group, combined with the suffix '-ster' to indicate a person.
  • The word gained popularity during the Prohibition era (1920-1933) when organized crime flourished in the United States.

The term 'mobster' originated in the United States in the early 20th century, during the Prohibition era. It was used to describe members of criminal organizations, particularly those involved in bootlegging and other illegal activities. The word 'mobster' is derived from 'mob', which refers to a group of people working together for illegal purposes. Over the years, mobsters have been portrayed in various forms of media, including movies and TV shows, often depicted as powerful and dangerous figures in the criminal underworld.

See also: immobility, mob.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #35,150, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.