Privateer

/ˈpraɪ.və.tɪər/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A private person or ship authorized by a government to attack foreign vessels during wartime.
    The privateer seized several enemy ships under the government’s letter of marque.

Forms

  • privateers

Commentary

Use 'privateer' specifically for government-sanctioned private naval warfare, distinct from piracy.

This glossary is for general informational and educational purposes only. Definitions are jurisdiction-agnostic but reflect terminology and concepts primarily drawn from English and American legal traditions. Nothing herein constitutes legal advice or creates a lawyer-client relationship. Users should consult qualified counsel for advice on specific matters or jurisdictions.

Draft confidently with Amicus

Create, negotiate, and sign agreements in one secure workspace—invite collaborators, track revisions, and keep audit-ready records automatically.

Open the Amicus app