LookItUp

customs

Meaning in simple English, pronunciation and examples

Pronunciation: US /ˈkʌstəmz/

customs means: Ways of behaving that are usual in a particular group or place.

noun

TRADITIONSB1

Ways of behaving that are usual in a particular group or place.

  • Wedding customs vary from country to country.
  • We learned about local customs before our trip.
  • Some ancient customs are still followed today.

Similar words: traditions, practices

Common phrases: local customs, traditional customs, wedding customs

BORDER AUTHORITYB1

The government service that checks goods crossing a border and collects taxes on them.

  • Customs checked our bags at the airport.
  • The package was held by customs for a week.
  • Customs officers found hidden goods inside the truck.

Common phrases: customs officer, customs officials, customs inspection

BORDER CHECKB1

The checks you go through when entering a country with your bags or goods.

  • We went through customs quickly.
  • Our bags must clear customs before delivery.
  • How long did customs take at the airport?

Similar words: customs clearance

Common phrases: go through customs, clear customs, customs checks

BORDER TAXESB2

Taxes you pay on goods brought into or sent out of a country.

  • We paid customs on the imported wine.
  • Customs duties make these goods more expensive.
  • The company owes thousands in customs.

Similar words: duties, tariffs

Common phrases: pay customs, customs duties, customs charges

Questions about customs

What does customs mean?

Ways of behaving that are usual in a particular group or place.

What is customs in other languages?

Türkçe: gelenekler · Español: costumbres · Français: coutumes · Deutsch: Bräuche · Italiano: usanze · 日本語: 慣習

How do you pronounce customs?

It is pronounced /ˈkʌstəmz/.

How do you use customs in a sentence?

Wedding customs vary from country to country. We learned about local customs before our trip.

Learn customs while you read

LookItUp shows the meaning that fits your sentence, in your language, and turns new words into quick practice cards.

Coming soon on the App Store LookItUp app for iPhone and iPad

Phrases with customs

customs in other languages

More words