gangsterism

[ gang-stuh-riz-uhm ]

/ ˈgæŋ stəˌrɪz əm /

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noun

the methods or behavior of gangsters.

the use of tactics associated with gangsters, as intimidation or violence, in order to achieve something.

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Origin of gangsterism

An Americanism dating back to 1925–30; gangster + -ism

Words nearby gangsterism

gang saw, gangsta, gangsta rap, gangster, gangster chic, gangsterism, gang switch, Gangtok, gangue, gang-up, gangway

How to use gangsterism in a sentence

Through some kink in our national psyche, gangsterism is seen by many as synonymous with American values.
What My Mobster Grandfather Understood About American Capitalism|Russell Shorto|March 17, 2021|Time
He was tough and came to attention when gangsterism, [John Dillinger, Pretty Boy Flood], and organized crime was at its height.
J. Edgar Hoover Unmasked|Sandra McElwaine|November 7, 2011|DAILY BEAST

British Dictionary definitions for gangsterism

gangsterism

/ (ˈɡæŋstərɪzəm) /

noun

the culture of belonging to organized gangs of criminals, esp involving violence

Collins English Dictionary - Complete & Unabridged 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012