First Known Use: 1687
Dictionary
smuggle
verb smug·gle \ˈsmə-gəl\
: to move (someone or something) from one country into another illegally and secretly
: to take or bring (something) secretly
smug·gledsmug·gling \-g(ə-)liŋ\
Full Definition of SMUGGLE
transitive verb
1
: to import or export secretly contrary to the law and especially without paying duties imposed by law
2
: to convey or introduce surreptitiously
intransitive verb
: to import or export something in violation of the customs laws
— smug·gler \ˈsmə-glər\ noun
See smuggle defined for English-language learners
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Origin of SMUGGLE
Low German smuggeln & Dutch smokkelen
SMUGGLING Defined for Kids
smuggle
verb smug·gle \ˈsmə-gəl\
smug·gledsmug·gling
Definition of SMUGGLE for Kids
1
: to export or import secretly and unlawfully <They smuggled stolen goods.>
2
: to take or bring secretly <It had been my intention to smuggle a couple of sandwiches … — Mark Twain, A Connecticut Yankee>
— smug·gler \ˈsmə-glər\ noun
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