smuggler

Pronunciation

• IPA: /ˈsmʌɡlər/
• American English: SMUHG-ler

Origin

From the verb "smuggle" + "-er" (agent suffix), derived from Low German "smuggeln" or Dutch "smokkelen", meaning "to transport illegally".

Meanings

1. (noun) A person who illegally imports or exports goods, typically to avoid paying taxes or duties.
2. (noun) Someone who secretly and illegally moves people or goods across borders.

Example Sentences

1. The smuggler concealed the contraband in a false compartment of his vehicle.
2. Authorities arrested a smuggler attempting to bring rare animals into the country.
3. The novel's protagonist was a daring smuggler who outsmarted customs officials.

Related Words

• Verb: smuggle
• Adjective: smuggled
• Noun: smuggling
• Synonyms: trafficker, bootlegger, contrabandist, runner

Memorization Trick

Think "SMUG-gler": A smuggler often looks SMUG because they believe they're cleverly avoiding the law by sneaking goods across borders.