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Smuggler Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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smuggler

[ˈsmʌɡ(ə)lə ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

illegal trade

A person who imports or exports goods secretly and illegally, typically without paying the necessary taxes or duties.

Synonyms

bootlegger, contrabandist, trafficker.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
smuggler

Used when talking about someone who secretly moves goods across borders in violation of the law.

  • The smuggler was arrested while trying to bring illegal drugs into the country
trafficker

Used when discussing someone involved in the illegal trade of goods or humans, and often has a negative connotation. Commonly associated with illegal drugs, weapons, or human trafficking.

  • The police broke up a ring of human traffickers who were exploiting migrants for forced labor
bootlegger

Refers specifically to someone who illegally makes, distributes, or sells goods, especially alcohol or recorded media, without proper authorization.

  • During Prohibition, many bootleggers operated underground bars where they sold illegal alcohol
contrabandist

A term used more formally, often in legal or historical contexts, to describe someone involved in the illegal import or export of goods.

  • The antiques were seized by customs officials because they were being transported by a known contrabandist

Examples of usage

  • He was caught trying to smuggle drugs across the border.
  • The smuggler was arrested at the airport with contraband goods.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Historical Origins

  • The term has roots in the Middle English word 'smugler,' meaning to move goods secretly.
  • During the 18th century, many smugglers transported goods like tea and tobacco to avoid taxes.
  • Smuggling has existed for centuries, dating back to ancient civilizations that sought to evade tariffs and trade restrictions.

Legal Aspects

  • Smuggling is a criminal activity in many countries, associated with serious penalties including imprisonment.
  • Customs agencies worldwide focus on combating smuggling, employing sophisticated technologies to detect illegal activities.
  • Migrant smuggling has become a significant issue, with people engaging smugglers for dangerous crossings into safer countries.

Pop Culture

  • Movies like 'Smuggler' and 'Ocean's Eleven' often portray smugglers as clever anti-heroes with thrilling heists.
  • Video games like 'Grand Theft Auto' feature smuggling missions, emphasizing the risk and excitement involved.
  • Books such as 'The Count of Monte Cristo' feature characters who engage in smuggling as part of adventure and revenge plots.

Economics

  • The black market thrives on smuggling, allowing goods to be bought and sold outside official economies.
  • Smuggling can disrupt legitimate businesses by creating unfair competition through bypassing regulations.
  • In some regions, smuggling is a vital part of the economy, providing income for families in impoverished areas.

Technology

  • Modern technology, such as drones and hidden compartments, has changed how smugglers operate.
  • Blockchain and cryptocurrency are increasingly being exploited for smuggling transactions to evade detection.
  • Customs organizations use advanced scanning equipment to detect hidden shipments and track smuggling routes.

Origin of 'smuggler'

The term 'smuggler' has been in use since the mid-17th century, derived from the word 'smuggle', which originally meant to import or export secretly and illegally. Smuggling has a long history, dating back to ancient times when individuals would bypass customs regulations to transport goods across borders. The practice of smuggling has evolved over the centuries, adapting to changes in trade and commerce.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #26,911, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.