privateer
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: //ˈpraɪvɪtɪr//
KK: /ˈpraɪvɪtɪr/
intransitive verb
Definition
To engage in privateering, which means to operate a privately owned ship that is authorized to attack enemy ships during wartime.
Example
During the war, many sailors chose to privateer instead of joining the navy.
Tense Forms
Past: privateered
Past Participle: privateered
Conversation
Have you ever thought about how exciting it would be to privateer?
That sounds adventurous! I'd love to sail the seas like that.
Imagine the freedom of sailing as a privateer and exploring new lands.
It would definitely be a thrilling experience, full of surprises!
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
pirate
raider
corsair
Antonyms
merchant
trader
civilian
noun
Definition
A privately owned ship that is given permission by a government to attack enemy ships during wartime.
Example
The privateer sailed the seas, capturing enemy vessels for profit.
Conversation
Did you ever read about the famous privateer who captured enemy ships during the war?
Yeah, I heard he was quite the legend on the seas!
Imagine being a privateer back then, sailing around and taking on risks for money.
Root Explanation
Privateer → It is formed from "private" (from Old French *privé*, meaning belonging to an individual) and "-eer" (a suffix used to denote a person associated with a specific action or occupation). A privateer is a person who is privately owned and authorized to engage in maritime warfare, often acting on behalf of a government.
Memory Tip
Think of someone who is 'privately' owned and authorized to act in war at sea — that's what a privateer is.
Visually Confused Words
prater