Bootleg

To manufacture, distribute, or sell goods (typically alcohol, recordings, or software) illicitly, without legal authorization or payment of taxes. This often involves bypassing copyright laws or government regulations. Bootlegging activities aim to profit from the demand for products that are either restricted, unavailable, or cheaper versions of existing goods. The term originates from the practice of concealing flasks of liquor in one's boots during Prohibition. Over time, it expanded to describe any unauthorized or illegal activity. This can include music, movies, software or even physical products.

Bootleg meaning with examples

• During the Prohibition era, many entrepreneurs engaged in bootleg activities, secretly producing and selling alcoholic beverages to meet public demand, circumventing the legal restrictions. The risk was high but the reward of large profit margins was the major motivator.
• The concert featured a high number of bootleg recordings and the band had to take legal action against many people who were pirating and distributing unauthorized versions of their songs online to protect their intellectual property.
• After the initial release, a flood of bootleg copies of the new movie appeared online, making them available to users before the official digital release date of the film, which cost the studio money.
• A warehouse was raided by the authorities, as they were producing bootleg versions of designer handbags, which were being sold at discounted prices to unsuspecting customers.