Definition

A building where customs duties are collected and where goods are inspected when they enter or leave a country.

Example

The customs house was busy with officials checking the imported goods.

Conversation

Have you ever been to a customshouse before?

No, I haven't. What do they do there?

They handle all the goods that come in and out of the country.

That sounds interesting! I should check one out sometime.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Customshouse → The word is formed from "custom" (from Old French *costume*, meaning a duty or tax) and "house" (from Old English *hus*, meaning a dwelling or shelter). A customshouse is a building where customs duties are collected and where goods are inspected before entering a country.

Memory Tip

Think of a 'house' where 'customs' duties are managed — that's what a customshouse is.

Visually Confused Words