Customs

/ˈkʌstəmz/

Meaning & Definition

noun

The official department that administers and collects the duties levied by a government on imported goods.

When traveling internationally, passengers must declare any goods they bring through customs.

The taxes or duties imposed on goods brought into a country.

She had to pay customs on the electronics she purchased abroad.

Traditional practices, rituals, or behaviors of a particular group, society, or culture.

The village's customs include celebrating the harvest with a festival every year.

Middle English, from Old French 'costume', derived from Latin 'consuetudo', meaning 'habit' or 'tradition'.

customs and traditions

The established practices and conventions of a society.

customs duty

A tax imposed on goods when they are transferred across international borders.

customs officer

A government official responsible for enforcing customs regulations.

tradition

The transmission of customs or beliefs from generation to generation.

ritual

A set of actions performed in a customary way.

culture

The customs, arts, social institutions, and achievements of a particular nation, people, or other social groups.

The hassle of crossing the border.

Getting through customs was such a pain after the flight.

The inspection process for travelers.

You’ve got to be ready for customs when you land, it's always a long wait.