Pirate: meaning, definitions and examples

Typically refers to someone who robs ships at sea, often without any legal commission. Can be used to describe modern-day digital piracy as well.

• The pirates attacked the cargo ship and stole all the goods
• He was arrested for being a pirate, illegally downloading and sharing movies

Historically refers to pirates in the Caribbean during the 17th century. Often romanticized in literature and cinema.

• The buccaneers of the Caribbean were known for their daring raids
• He dressed up as a buccaneer for the costume party

Refers to a person or ship granted a government commission to attack enemy ships during wartime. More legitimate compared to pirates but still involved in similar activities.

• The government issued letters of marque to privateers during the naval war
• As a privateer, he had official backing to capture enemy vessels

A term used primarily to refer to pirate or privateer ships operating in the Mediterranean Sea, especially those from the Barbary Coast. Can also refer to the pirates themselves.

• The corsairs of the Mediterranean were feared by all merchant ships
• The novel features a daring corsair adventurer

Commonly used to describe someone who engages in robbery at sea or a person who illegally copies and distributes content.

• The famous pirate Blackbeard terrorized the Caribbean Sea.
• He was caught after trying to sell pirated movies online.

Historical term often used to describe pirates or adventurers who roamed and plundered particularly in the 16th and 17th centuries.

• The freebooters of the Spanish Main were notorious for their ruthless raids on coastal towns.

Describes someone who carries out quick attacks or raids, often in a military or competitive business context.

• The soldiers were prepared for an attack from raiders during the night.
• Corporate raiders attempt to take over companies by hostile means.

Refers to someone who steals goods, often during times of war or chaos. It generally has a negative connotation.

• The plunderers left the village in ruins after taking everything of value.
• During the revolution, many historical artifacts fell into the hands of plunderers.

Typically used to describe someone who illegally copies or distributes copyrighted material such as software, movies, or music. It carries a negative connotation and is often used in discussions about violation of intellectual property rights.

• He was caught pirating movies and now faces legal consequences.
• The organization was known to pirate software and sell it at a lower price.

This phrase is straightforward and is often used in formal or legal discussions. It describes the act of reproducing copyrighted material without permission and is commonly used in legal documents and news reports.

• They were sued for copying music illegally and distributing it online.
• Copying software illegally can result in severe penalties.

A more formal term often found in legal texts and formal documentation. It specifically refers to the illegal reproduction of copyrighted material and is used in laws, regulations, and official statements.

• The company was fined for reproducing software unlawfully.
• Reproducing books unlawfully infringes on the author's rights.