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bootleg. In DICTIOUS you will not only get to know all the dictionary meanings for the word
bootleg, but we will also tell you about its etymology, its characteristics and you will know how to say
bootleg in singular and plural. Everything you need to know about the word
bootleg you have here. The definition of the word
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English
Etymology
From boot + leg. Originally a nickname given to smugglers in King George III's reign, derived from the smugglers' custom of hiding packages of valuables in their large sea-boots when dodging the king's coastguardsmen.
Pronunciation
Verb
bootleg (third-person singular simple present bootlegs, present participle bootlegging, simple past and past participle bootlegged)
- (transitive, intransitive) To engage in bootlegging.
- (chiefly US, transitive, intransitive) To make, transport and/or sell illegal alcoholic liquor.
In the 1930s, Grandpa used to bootleg to make ends meet.
In the 1930s, Grandpa used to bootleg whiskey from a still hidden in the backwoods.
- (transitive, intransitive) To make, transport and/or sell an illegal version or copy of a copyrighted product.
In the 1990s, Grandpa used to bootleg under some sort of Robin-Hood-esque notion.
In the 1990s, Grandpa used to bootleg Windows CD-ROMs.
- (chiefly US, transitive, intransitive) To operate a mine illicitly.
In the 1930s, Grandpa used to bootleg to make ends meet.
In the 1930s, Grandpa used to bootleg coal from a shaft hidden in the backwoods.
Derived terms
Translations
to make, transport and/or sell illegal alcoholic liquor
to make, transport and/or sell an illegal version or copy of a copyright product
Noun
bootleg (plural bootlegs)
- The part of a boot that is above the instep.
- An illegally produced, transported or sold product; contraband.
- (music) An unauthorized recording, e.g., of a live concert.
- (music) A remix or mashup that is a combination of two songs but that is not authorized and audited for copyright use; primarily in the electronic music scene.
- (American football) A play in which the quarterback fakes a handoff, conceals the ball against his hip, and rolls out.
Translations
that part of a boot that is above the instep
an illegally produced, transported or sold product; contraband
Adjective
bootleg (not comparable)
- Illegally produced, transported or sold; pirated.
Derived terms
Translations
illegally produced, transported or sold
See also