letter of marque

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English

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Noun

letter of marque (plural letters of marque)

  1. (nautical, historical) An official commission from a government authorizing someone to seize the property or people of another nation; especially to attack merchant shipping of another nation.
    Synonym: letter of marque and reprisal
    • 1976, Stan Rogers (lyrics and music), “Barrett's Privateers”, in Fogarty's Cove:
      A letter of marque came from the King / to the scummiest vessel I'd ever seen / God damn them all! I was told / We'd cruise the seas for American gold / We'd fire no guns, shed no tears.
  2. (nautical, historical) A ship that has been armed for such a task.

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