Synonyms for

Gangster

Verb / ˈgæŋstɜ: / Another word for gangster — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

a member of a gang of violent criminals

Synonyms & similar words

mobster thug mobster hoodlum crook criminal mugger assassin hitman thief robber burglar outlaw ruffian goon enforcer hooligan punk yakuza mafioso godfather

Synonyms by register

Formal

criminal offender felon outlaw

Informal

thug hoodlum mobster goon crook

Literary

ruffian brigand marauder

Antonyms

law-abiding citizen peacekeeper civilian non-criminal respectable person decent person

Common collocations

  • notorious gangster
  • gangster film
  • former gangster
  • gangster rap
  • gangster life
  • international gangster
  • gangster boss

Word family

noun gangster
adjective gangsterish

Usage note

The term 'gangster' often carries strong negative connotations, implying involvement in organized crime and violence. It is primarily used in informal contexts or when discussing criminal activity.

Example sentences

  1. The gangster robbed the bank and got away with a lot of money.
  2. The movie is about a gangster who rises to power in the mafia.
  3. The police arrested the gangster for selling drugs.
  4. The gangster threatened to harm anyone who crossed him.
  5. The gangster's life of crime eventually caught up with him and he went to jail.

Quotes

  • I don't want to be a gangster. I want to be a businessman.
  • A gangster must always be prepared to kill a friend. It is one of the disadvantages of being a gangster.
  • I am a gangster. I have always been a gangster.

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