Piracy

usgb/ˈpaɪrəsi/
noun

The act of attacking and stealing from ships at sea.

The coast guard is tasked with tackling piracy in these waters.
Visual representation of "piracy" - The act of attacking and stealing from ships at sea.

Often appears as...

  • tackle piracy
  • rampant piracy
Definition 1 of 3
Visual representation of "piracy"
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Historical Context

Understand that traditional piracy is an ancient practice, now largely historical or used in fiction.

Illustration for Historical Context
Pirates like Blackbeard are often romanticized in stories, despite the violent reality of historical piracy.
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Modern Usage

Currently, 'piracy' might refer to smaller-scale, regional issues rather than the romanticized golden age pirates.

Illustration for Modern Usage
Modern piracy around the Somalia coast affects international shipping routes.
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Cultural Depiction

In modern culture, piracy is often depicted as adventurous, but real-life piracy is illegal and dangerous.

Illustration for Cultural Depiction
Pirate-themed parties are fun, but they stem from a sanitized version of actual piracy.
Visual representation of the word "Piracy"

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