Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

blockade-runner

noun
/blɒkˈeɪd ˈrʌnər/
Definition
A ship or vessel that is used to evade a naval blockade in order to transport goods or people in or out of a blocked area.
Examples
  • The blockade-runner successfully delivered medical supplies to the besieged city.
  • During the Civil War, many blockade-runners risked their lives to bring goods to the Confederacy.
  • Despite the dangers, the captain decided to send a blockade-runner through the heavily patrolled waters.
Meaning
Blockade-runners are typically used in wartime to evade blockades imposed by enemy forces, allowing for the transport of important supplies or the evacuation of personnel.
Synonyms
  • smuggler
  • runner
  • contrabandist
  • pirate ship