Langimage
English

buccaneer

|buc-ca-neer|

C1

🇺🇸

/ˌbʌkəˈnɪr/

🇬🇧

/ˌbʌkəˈnɪə/

pirate

Etymology
Etymology Information

'buccaneer' originates from French, specifically the word 'boucanier,' where 'boucan' referred to a wooden frame for smoking meat.

Historical Evolution

'boucanier' transformed into the English word 'buccaneer' during the 17th century.

Meaning Changes

Initially, it referred to hunters who smoked meat, but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'pirate.'

Meanings by Part of Speech

Noun 1

a pirate, especially one who preyed on Spanish shipping in the West Indies during the 17th century.

The buccaneer sailed the Caribbean in search of treasure.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Verb 1

to act as a pirate; to engage in piracy.

He buccaneered his way through the high seas.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:42