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English Lexicon

Contraband

/ˈkɒn.trə.bænd/
nounadjectiveCEFR C1 (Advanced)Top #4520 frequency
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Comprehensive Definitions & Senses

2 senses
As noun
  1. 1

    Goods that are illegal to import or export.

    "The authorities seized a shipment of contraband at the border."
  2. 2

    Any item that is prohibited by law.

    "The police found contraband items in the suspect's vehicle."
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Antonyms & Contrasting Words (1)

Linguistic Origin & Historical Etymology

Derived from the Italian 'contrabbando', combining 'contro-' (against) and 'bando' (edict, proclamation). It entered English in the 16th century via Medieval Latin, originally referring to goods traded contrary to a royal proclamation or prohibition.

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