contraband

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

After a visit home, I returned to campus with a stockpile, like a confectionery smuggler crossing state lines with sugary contraband stuffed between sweatshirts in my suitcase.

From Salon • Mar. 17, 2026

In the 1980s, hip-hop albums felt like contraband.

From The Wall Street Journal • Feb. 2, 2026

According to the ICE website, the HSI investigates global threats, investigating the illegal movement of people, goods, money, contraband, weapons and sensitive technology into, out of, and through the United States.

From Barron's • Jan. 27, 2026

He added: "Our services' aim is to seize the largest possible quantities of contraband and to detain organisers and perpetrators so that this activity is unprofitable and does not pose a risk to civil aviation."

From BBC • Oct. 6, 2025

Newspapers were more valuable to political prisoners than gold or diamonds, more hungered for than food or tobacco; they were the most precious contraband on Robben Island.

From "Long Walk to Freedom" by Nelson Mandela