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

York is under investigation by the NFL and his arrest puts a spotlight on East Palestine, where local officials say policing human trafficking has been a priority. — Nicole Fallert, USA Today, 25 Aug. 2026

Most people have heard about the arrests of Andrew and Tristan Tate in July on charges that include rape and human trafficking. — Jodi Bondi Norgaard, Chicago Tribune, 24 Aug. 2026

As part of a plea deal with state prosecutors, five human trafficking charges against Moncrief were dropped. — Martin E. Comas, The Orlando Sentinel, 22 Aug. 2026

The Philippines sentenced her to life imprisonment for human trafficking connected to her role in running an online gambling operation. — Alvin Camba, Foreign Affairs, 21 Aug. 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