right of search

noun

, International Law.

1. the privilege of a nation at war to search neutral ships on the high seas for contraband or other matter, carried in violation of neutrality, that may subject the ship to seizure.

right of search

noun

1. the right of a belligerent to stop and search neutral merchant ships on the high seas in wartime

Word History and Origins

Origin of right of search¹

First recorded in 1810–20