Meaning & Definition of word "Tariff"

Tariff

/ˈtærɪf/

noun:

  • 1. A government-imposed fee or tax on imported or exported goods.
    • Example: The new tariff on steel imports has raised the cost for domestic manufacturers.
  • 2. A schedule of rates or prices for services, especially a list of prices for a public utility.
    • Example: The local water authority updated its tariff, increasing charges for excessive water use.
  • 3. A list or table of rates or charges for specific services or commodities.
    • Example: The airline provided a detailed tariff for its international flight services.

Etymology

From Middle French 'tarif', from Arabic 'taʕārīf', meaning 'notification' or 'to inform'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

protectionist tariff:

A tariff protecting domestic industries from foreign competition.

customs tariff:

A tax imposed on imports and exports.

tariff barrier:

A restriction on trade that results from the imposition of tariffs.

Related Words

duty:

A kind of tax imposed on goods.

levy:

A legal seizure of property to satisfy a debt.

Slang Meanings of tariff

Meaning: Tariffing

Example Sentence: He was tariffing a lot of baggage during the customs check.

Meaning: Taxman

Example Sentence: The taxman is hitting us hard with these new tariffs.