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human trafficking

American  

noun

  1. the illegal practice of procuring or trading in human beings for the purpose of prostitution, forced labor, or other forms of exploitation.


Etymology

Origin of human trafficking

First recorded in 1985–90

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.

The French authorities have also been investigating a vast alleged human trafficking network reportedly set up by Fayed.

From Barron's • May 7, 2026

"Where there are credible allegations of human trafficking, the UK state, even if no victims come forward, has a positive legal obligation to conduct a prompt, effective and independent investigation," she said.

From BBC • Apr. 24, 2026

Officials branded these visits as “wellness checks,” ostensibly aimed at ensuring that the children in question did not fall victim to human trafficking and were keeping up with their obligations for their immigration cases.

From Salon • Apr. 10, 2026

She asked him to think about a victim of human trafficking who is brought to the U.S. illegally then gives birth here.

From Slate • Apr. 1, 2026

But her fight against child marriage and her advocacy to end human trafficking are changing the world.

From "You Bring the Distant Near" by Mitali Perkins

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