rhizoverbBeta
DictionarysmugglerIllegal transporter
noun

smuggler

SMUG-ler/ˈsmʌɡlər/

Someone who secretly moves goods or people past borders or other controls illegally.

The smuggler conceals packages inside a compartment in the vehicle.

Middle-aged East Asian smuggler hides packages in vehicle compartment.
Etymology
smugglLow Germantransport goods illegally
+erEnglishperson who does

The verb behind smuggler apparently developed from a word meaning “sneak,” perhaps with the image of slipping contraband through. The agent ending identifies the person carrying out that secret, illegal trade.

In context

Anything Goes With James English41:16
he was a smuggler um he had great roots he used to smuggle a lot of cannabis at the time from colombia colombian gold into the states
The King of COCAINE - Drug Lord Andrew Pritchard tells his story

More examples

  • Customs officers caught two smugglers with illegal ivory.
  • The family paid a smuggler to get them across the border.
  • The prison tightened security after a smuggler brought phones inside.

Forms

smuggler · smugglers

smuggle verb — To transport goods or people secretly and illegally.

smuggling noun — The illegal transport of goods or people.

Similar words

trafficker
Often trades illegal goods or exploits people, rather than merely transporting.
bootlegger
Specifically makes, sells, or transports illegal alcohol or unauthorized copies.