gangster

[gang-ster]

noun

1. a member of a gang of criminals, especially a racketeer in an organized crime syndicate.

   Synonyms: goon, hood, thug, crook, hoodlum, mobster

gangster

/ ˈɡæŋstə /

noun

1. a member of an organized gang of criminals, esp one who resorts to violence

Word History and Origins

Origin of gangster¹

An Americanism dating back to 1895–1900; gang ¹ + -ster

Example Sentences

But these don't seem to be hooded gangsters armed with weapons.

From BBC

One of the tout accounts used the name Tony Montana - the lead character in '80s gangster film Scarface - to try and bulk purchase tickets.

From BBC

“You see all these gangster movies where the bad guys have different nationalities,” Kotsur said.

From Los Angeles Times

The jailing of hundreds of Scottish gangsters has left prison staff playing a daily game of chess as they try to keep violent rivals apart.

From BBC

Several items connected to notorious London gangsters the Kray twins are to come up for auction.

From BBC

Related Words

• bandit 
• criminal 
• crook 
• hoodlum 
• hooligan 
• mobster 
• racketeer 
• robber 
• soldier 
• thug