What does gangster mean?
A gangster is a member of an organized criminal gang, particularly one associated with the violent gangs and organized-crime networks of twentieth-century urban America. The term has also become a familiar cultural label for characters, styles, films, and music connected with criminal power. In journalism and historical writing, "gangster" usually identifies someone involved in serious organized crime rather than an ordinary criminal or petty thief. Informally, it may describe a brutal or intimidating person, though that use can sound dramatic or derogatory. The verb, meaning to behave as a gangster, and the adjective, meaning related to gangsters or gangster culture, are much less formal and relatively uncommon. The word also appears in established expressions such as "gangster film," "gangster movie," and "gangster rap." Its combination of legal history, popular folklore, and musical influence makes it one of the most recognizable words associated with American criminal culture.
A member of an organized criminal gang, especially one involved in violent or organized crime.
"The gangster was sentenced to life imprisonment for his role in the crime syndicate."
To behave or operate as a gangster.
"He tried to gangster his way through the dispute, but the threats only made matters worse."
Relating to gangsters, gangster films, or gangster rap.
"The soundtrack gives the action movie a distinctly gangster atmosphere."
Use "gangsters" for more than one gangster. The plural can refer collectively to members of a criminal organization.
"The police alleged that the gangsters controlled drug trafficking across the city."
From criminal organizations to blockbuster films and chart-topping rap, "gangster" became one of American English’s most recognizable cultural exports.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does gangster come from?
"Gangster" was formed in American English from "gang" and the suffix "-ster," which can identify a person associated with an activity or group. The word is generally associated with the early twentieth century, when urban criminal gangs and organized crime became prominent subjects of American journalism and popular culture. Its base word "gang" comes through English from an older Germanic word meaning a band or company, while related English forms include "gangland," "gangsman," and "gangway."
Related word forms
How gangster is actually used
The noun is standard in journalism, historical accounts, literature, and discussion of crime. The verb and adjective uses are more informal and often belong to stylized or colloquial language. In British English, the word can evoke organized crime generally, while in American usage it is strongly associated with urban gangs and the Mafia.