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contraband

noun

/ˈkɒntrəband/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of contraband

Goods or items that are prohibited by law from being imported, exported, sold, or possessed.
"The customs officials discovered a large amount of contraband in the shipment."

Detailed meaning of contraband

These items are considered illegal or illicit and may include drugs, weapons, stolen goods, counterfeit currency, or other goods that pose a threat to public safety or the economy. The possession or transportation of contraband is a criminal offense and may result in fines, imprisonment, or other legal penalties. The term is often used in the context of smuggling, where individuals attempt to bypass customs and border control to bring contraband into a country or region. The trade of contraband is a significant global issue that poses challenges for law enforcement agencies and border control authorities.

Example sentences containing contraband

1. Airport security confiscated his contraband items, including illegal drugs.
2. The smuggler attempted to transport contraband across the border.
3. Possession of contraband firearms can lead to serious legal consequences.
4. Law enforcement conducted a raid to seize contraband goods.
5. The prison guards searched for hidden contraband during the inspection.
6. Customs officers intercepted a shipment of contraband cigarettes.

History and etymology of contraband

The term 'contraband' has an etymology deeply rooted in its meaning as goods or items prohibited by law. It finds its origins in the Italian phrase 'contra bando,' which translates to 'against the proclamation' or 'against the ban.' This phrase was used in medieval Italy to refer to goods that were banned or prohibited from being traded or transported. Over time, 'contraband' was adopted into English, retaining its core meaning of items or goods forbidden by law. Its etymology vividly illustrates the concept of going against official proclamations or bans and the legal consequences associated with the possession or trade of such prohibited items.

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Further usage examples of contraband

1. The police discovered a stash of contraband alcohol in an illegal speakeasy.
2. Smuggling contraband wildlife products threatens endangered species.
3. The black market thrives on the sale of contraband luxury goods.
4. Counterfeit designer handbags are a common form of contraband.
5. The authorities cracked down on the illegal trade in contraband art.
6. Drug traffickers often use hidden compartments to conceal contraband.
7. The ship's cargo hold was filled with contraband ivory.
8. A crackdown on contraband items led to multiple arrests.
9. The black market trade in contraband electronics is on the rise.
10. The prison implemented strict measures to prevent contraband from entering.
11. Smugglers attempted to transport contraband archaeological artifacts.
12. The sale of contraband pharmaceuticals poses health risks to consumers.
13. The customs officers were trained to detect contraband food products.
14. The illegal trade in contraband firearms fuels violence in the region.
15. The authorities seized a shipment of contraband exotic pets.
16. The border patrol intercepted a group of people smuggling contraband cash.
17. The police dogs were trained to sniff out hidden contraband.
18. The government implemented stricter controls to combat contraband trade.
19. The illegal distribution of contraband DVDs undermines the film industry.