Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /ˈpaɪrət/
KK: /ˈpaɪrɪt/
Definition
To engage in acts of robbery or violence at sea, typically on a ship.
Example
The group decided to pirate the cargo ship in the dark of night.
Tense Forms
Past: pirated
Past Participle: pirated
Conversation

Did you hear about that group that decided to pirate in the Caribbean?

Yeah, it's crazy how some people actually do that!

I can't believe they think it's still cool to pirate ships.

Right? It's so risky and illegal, but I guess it sounds adventurous.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Definition
A person who engages in robbery or violence at sea, often attacking ships and stealing their cargo.
Example
The pirate sailed the seas in search of treasure and adventure.
Conversation

Have you ever thought about what it would be like to be a pirate?

That would be so exciting, sailing the seas and searching for treasure!

Yeah, but I bet it's not all fun and games; real pirates had to face a lot of danger.
Definition
To attack and steal from a ship at sea or to take something unlawfully.
Example
The crew decided to pirate the merchant ship that was sailing alone.
Tense Forms
Past: pirated
Past Participle: pirated
Conversation

Did you hear about that movie where they pirate a treasure ship?

Yeah, I saw the trailer! It looks intense.

I can't believe they actually pirate real ships in the story.
Root Explanation
Pirate → The word originates from the Latin 'pirata' (meaning sea robber), which comes from the Greek 'peiratēs' (meaning one who attacks). It describes someone who engages in acts of robbery at sea.
Memory Tip
Think of a 'sea robber' — that's what a pirate is, someone who attacks ships on the ocean.
Visually Confused Words
spirate
picrate
prate
irate
spirated
priorate
piperate
picrated