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Smuggler - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

A smuggler is a person who illegally transports goods or people across borders to avoid taxes or laws. This often involves hiding items or evading authorities.

smuggler

/ˈsmʌɡlɚ/ /ˈsmʌɡlə/

Definition:

A person who illegally transports goods or people across borders.

Synonyms:

bootlegger, trafficker, runner, contrabandist

Part of Speech:

noun

Antonyms:

law enforcer, customs officer

Common Collocations:

drug smuggler, arms smuggler, human smuggler, border smuggler

Derivatives:

smuggling, smuggled

Usage Tips:

Use "smuggler" for someone secretly moving illegal items; avoid for legal transport.

Common Phrases:

smugglers' den, smugglers' route, smugglers' paradise

Etymology:

From Low German "smuggeln," meaning to transport secretly; entered English in the 17th century.

Examples:

  • 1. The smuggler hid the goods in a secret compartment.
  • 2. Authorities arrested the smuggler at the border with illegal drugs.
  • 3. The novel tells the story of a daring whiskey smuggler.
  • 4. Smugglers often use remote routes to avoid detection.

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