letter of marque
A 'letter of marque' was an official government authorization allowing private ships to engage in warfare against enemy nations, commonly used during the age of sail.
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Definition
C1Maritime Warfare
(historical, technical)An official authorization from a government permitting a private ship to attack and capture enemy vessels during wartime.
Example
- During the 18th century, many private ships operated under letters of marque to disrupt enemy trade.
C1Maritime Warfare
(historical)A ship equipped and licensed by a government to engage in attacks on enemy shipping.
Example
- The privateer sailed under a letter of marque, targeting enemy merchant ships for capture.
Similar
Terms that have similar or relatively close meanings to "letter of marque":