human trafficking

noun

: organized criminal activity in which human beings are treated as possessions to be controlled and exploited (as by being forced into sex work or involuntary labor)

Examples of human trafficking in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

McLaughlin also thanked the multi-disciplinary human trafficking team that helped with the case and supported the victims. —Katie Langford, Denver Post, 29 May 2026

The nonprofit helps child and young adult survivors of human trafficking in the San Diego-Tijuana border area. —Linda McIntosh, San Diego Union-Tribune, 29 May 2026

The law, enacted in 2014 and then amended in 2019, allows for cooperation in criminal matters like human trafficking, child exploitation, drug and weapons trafficking, and cybercrimes. —Gayla Cawley, Boston Herald, 28 May 2026

Trafficking prevention a priority Much like plans published in other host cities, implementing awareness campaigns surrounding human trafficking prevention was a key point in Kansas City’s. —Sofi Zeman, Kansas City Star, 28 May 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1904, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

human trafficking

noun

: organized criminal activity in which human beings are treated as possessions to be controlled and exploited (as by being forced into prostitution or involuntary labor)

Legal Definition

human trafficking

noun

: the business of inducing a person to perform labor or engage in prostitution through force, fraud, or coercion see also labor trafficking, sex trafficking