trafficking

[ traf-i-king ]

noun

1. the practice of dealing or trading in a commodity or service, often an illegal one:

   drug trafficking.

2. human trafficking.
3. sex trafficking.

Word History and Origins

Origin of trafficking¹

First recorded in 1530–40; traffic ( def ) + -ing ¹( def )

Example Sentences

Experts say this is a common method, often with the guns transported in multiple shipments of small quantities, a process named "ant trafficking".

From BBC

The law introduced a new defence for victims of slavery and trafficking who had been forced to break the law.

From BBC

As Combs' trial approached, the government updated its case to add new victims, and fresh charges that he threatened to punish employees who did not assist in his alleged two-decade sex trafficking scheme.

From BBC

Without directly attributing blame for the attacks, he said the French government was "facing up to the problem of drug trafficking" and taking measures that would "profoundly disrupt" criminal networks.

From BBC

The case showed a "disturbing shift in trafficking patterns - from iconic mammals to lesser-known species that are vital to ecological balance", the KWS said.

From BBC

Related Words

• piracy
• smuggling