Search Dictionary
Definition of smuggle

smuggle

/ˈsmʌɡ.əl/
smug · gle
Past Simple:smuggled
•
Past Participle:smuggled
•
Present Participle:smuggling
JUMP TO:

smuggle Lexical Profile

smuggle Game Scores & Validity

• verb

1

To import or export goods secretly, in violation of the law, especially without paying legal duty.

Example

"The merchant attempted to smuggle rare antiquities across the border without declaring them to customs."

2

To convey someone or something furtively into or out of a place where they are not allowed.

Example

"The children tried to smuggle their new puppy into the hotel room inside a large duffel bag."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for smuggle
Antonyms
View all antonyms for smuggle

• Rhymes for smuggle

• Nearby Words

smudging
smudgy
smug
smuggle
smuggler
smugly
smugness

Word Origin & Etymology

Borrowed in the late 17th century from Low German smuggeln or Dutch smokkelen ('to transport goods illegally'), a frequentative form ultimately related to a Germanic root meaning 'to creep or slip through'.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Smuggle. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/smuggle
Built for writers, students, and competitive word game players, Wordmom combines an uncluttered English dictionary and thesaurus with fast, pattern-based word finders so you can verify definitions, synonyms, and high-scoring tile plays in one place.
Word Games & Solvers
Word FinderScrabble Word FinderWords With Friends CheatWordle SolverAnagram Solver
Dictionary & Reference
DictionarySynonymsAntonymsWords
Community
Contact UsEditorial PolicyPrivacy PolicyTerms and Conditions
© 2016–2026 Wordmom Network. All rights reserved. Made with for word lovers everywhere.
Disclaimer: SCRABBLE® is a registered trademark. All intellectual property rights in and to the game are owned in the U.S.A. and Canada by Hasbro Inc., and throughout the rest of the world by J.W. Spear & Sons Limited of Maidenhead, Berkshire, England, a subsidiary of Mattel Inc. Mattel and Spear are not affiliated with Hasbro. Words With Friends® is a registered trademark of Zynga Inc. Wordle® is a registered trademark of The New York Times Company. Other referenced game titles and tournament lexicon codes (including NASPA NWL and WESPA/HarperCollins CSW) are trademarks of their respective owners. Wordmom is an independent reference utility for educational and entertainment purposes and is not affiliated with, sponsored by, or endorsed by Hasbro, Mattel, Spear, Zynga, The New York Times Company, NASPA, WESPA, or HarperCollins Publishers. All game names are referenced strictly under nominative fair use to indicate compatibility.