pirates
word · lemma: pirate
Definition
Pirates are people who attack ships at sea and steal from them. The word is also used more generally for people who illegally copy or use movies, music, software, and other content.
Usage & Nuances
Usually a noun: 'sea pirates' or 'movie pirates'. In modern everyday English, the historical sea meaning is common in stories, while the illegal-copying meaning appears in news and technology contexts. Do not confuse with 'privateers', who had official permission in history.
Example Sentences
The pirates attacked the ship at night.
basic
Many old stories are about pirates and treasure.
basic
Those theme-park pirates looked scary, but they were actually hilarious.
natural
The police arrested two pirates selling fake DVDs.
basic
As a kid, I was obsessed with pirates and wanted a ship of my own.
natural
The studio is cracking down on pirates who upload movies online.
natural