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

Police seized the $160 from York and that was later given to the human trafficking task force as part of the plea. — ABC News, 2 Oct. 2026

He was initially charged with armed robbery and home invasion, but that changed after authorities learned of the human trafficking plot he was involved in, court records show. — Milena Malaver, Miami Herald, 2 Oct. 2026

Ashley Faison-Maddox is building support for survivors of human trafficking while creating space for healing, dignity and hope. — The Sacramento Bee Staff, Sacbee.com, 1 Oct. 2026

Pierre has pleaded not guilty to charges of kidnapping, human trafficking, and indecent assault and battery on a person over 14, according to affiliates. — Alex Stambaugh, CNN Money, 29 Sep. 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