ˈkʌstəm n. 1 a
the usual way of behaving or
acting (a
slave to custom). b a
particular established way of behaving (our customs
seem strange to foreigners). 2
Law established
usage having the force of law. 3
business patronage;
regular dealings or customers (lost a
lot of custom). 4 (in
pl.;
also treated as sing.) a a
duty levied on
certain imported
and exported goods. b the
official department that administers
this. c the
area at a
port,
frontier,
etc.,
where customs officials deal
with incoming goods,
baggage, etc. øcustom-built (or -made etc.)
made to a customer's
order. custom-house the
office at a port or frontier etc. at
which customs duties are levied. customs
union a
group of States with an agreed
common tariff, and usu.
free trade with
each other. [ME and OF custume ult. f. L consuetudo -dinis: see CONSUETUDE]