Profiteer: meaning, definitions and examples

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profiteer

[ ˌprɒf.ɪˈtɪər ]

^{Context #1}

business

A person who takes advantage of a situation to make a profit, often in a dishonest or unethical way.

Synonyms

exploiter, mercenary, opportunist

Examples of usage

He was accused of being a profiteer who exploited the war for personal gain.
The profiteer manipulated market prices for his own benefit.

^{Context #2}

economy

To make a profit, especially by taking advantage of a situation.

Synonyms

capitalize, exploit, monetize

Examples of usage

Some businesses profiteer during times of crisis by raising prices unreasonably.
The company was accused of profiteering from the pandemic.

Translations

Translations of the word "profiteer" in other languages:

🇵🇹 especulador

🇮🇳 मुनाफा कमाने वाला

🇩🇪 Kriegsgewinnler

🇮🇩 pengambil untung

🇺🇦 спекулянт

🇵🇱 spekulant

🇯🇵 暴利をむさぼる人

🇫🇷 profiteur

🇪🇸 especulador

🇹🇷 kâr peşinde koşan

🇰🇷 이익을 노리는 사람

🇸🇦 مستغل

🇨🇿 spekulant

🇸🇰 špekulant

🇨🇳 投机者

🇸🇮 špekulant

🇮🇸 gróðamaður

🇰🇿 пайдакүнем

🇬🇪 სპეკულანტი

🇦🇿 faydalanan

🇲🇽 especulador

Word origin

The term 'profiteer' originated during the early 20th century, particularly during times of war or economic instability. It gained negative connotations due to individuals or businesses exploiting such situations for personal gain at the expense of others. The word reflects a sense of opportunism and greed, often associated with unethical practices in pursuit of financial profit.