contraband
KON-truh-band
/ˈkɒntrəbænd/
Goods that have been imported or exported illegally; traffic in such goods.
Often implies items whose trade is prohibited by law or by wartime regulations.
The story behind the word. The word 'contraband' is a fascinating blend of Latin and Italian. 'Contra' is Latin for 'against,' and 'bando' is Italian for 'proclamation' or 'ban.' So, 'contraband' literally means 'against the ban' or 'against the proclamation.' It perfectly describes goods that are prohibited by official decree, especially during wartime or by customs laws.
Word relationships
- smuggled goods: Goods brought in or out illegally.
- illicit goods: Goods forbidden by law, custom, or morality.
- black market goods: Goods traded illegally, often to avoid taxes or regulations.
- legal goods: Items permitted by law.
- legitimate trade: Commerce conducted according to law.
Collocations
- contraband goods
- contraband trade
- smuggle contraband
- seize contraband
Example sentences
- "Customs officials seized a large shipment of contraband cigarettes attempting to enter the country without proper duties." Referring to illegal goods.
- "The government launched an initiative to crack down on the contraband trade that was funding criminal organizations." Referring to the illegal trade itself.
Memory hook
CONTRA-BAND: goods that are CONTRA (against) the BAN. Against the ban
When not to use
Do not use 'contraband' for stolen goods that are not specifically prohibited from trade (e.g., a stolen car is not 'contraband' unless its trade is generally illegal).
Fun facts
- During the American Civil War, enslaved people who escaped to Union lines were sometimes declared 'contraband of war' and not returned to their owners, a legal loophole that aided their freedom.
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