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Privateer: meaning, definitions and examples

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privateer

 

[ ˌpraɪ.vəˈtɪr ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

naval warfare

A privateer is a privately owned armed ship authorized by a government during wartime to attack and capture enemy vessels.

Synonyms

buccaneer, corsair, raider

Examples of usage

  • Privateers were used by various countries to supplement their naval power during times of war.
  • Privateers played a significant role in naval conflicts, often disrupting enemy trade routes.
Context #2 | Noun

history

In historical context, a privateer was essentially a legalized pirate, operating under a letter of marque issued by a government.

Synonyms

licensed pirate, private armed vessel

Examples of usage

  • Privateers were often seen as a way for governments to wage economic warfare against their enemies.
  • The life of a privateer was risky but lucrative, as they could keep a portion of the captured goods.

Translations

Translations of the word "privateer" in other languages:

🇵🇹 corsário

🇮🇳 निजी समुद्री लुटेरा

🇩🇪 Kaper

🇮🇩 perompak swasta

🇺🇦 приватир

🇵🇱 korsarz

🇯🇵 私掠船

🇫🇷 corsaire

🇪🇸 corsario

🇹🇷 özel korsan

🇰🇷 사설 해적

🇸🇦 قرصان خاص

🇨🇿 korzár

🇸🇰 korzár

🇨🇳 私掠船

🇸🇮 korsar

🇮🇸 einkaréttari

🇰🇿 жекеер

🇬🇪 კორსარი

🇦🇿 özəl dəniz qulduru

🇲🇽 corsario

Word origin

The term 'privateer' originated in the 17th century and was commonly used during periods of naval warfare. Privateers played a significant role in naval strategy, with governments issuing letters of marque to private ship owners to disrupt enemy shipping. While privateers were seen as legitimate during wartime, their actions often blurred the lines between legal warfare and piracy. The history of privateering reflects the complex nature of naval conflicts and the role of private enterprise in military operations.

See also: privacy, privately, privation.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #22,651, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.