laogai

noun

lao·​gai ˈlau̇-ˈgī How to pronounce laogai (audio)
plural laogai
: the penal system of China consisting of a network of labor camps
also : such a labor camp

Examples of laogai in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
That diluted Western opposition to the party’s retention of an iron grip on political power or the existence of the laogai — gulag — to which political and religious dissidents were sent. Jonathan S. Tobin, National Review, 23 July 2019 Instead, there is torture, a sham trial, and a gulag (called laogai). Nr Editors, National Review, 20 June 2019

Word History

Etymology

Chinese (Beijing) láogǎi reform through labor, short for láodòng gǎizào, from láodòng work, labor + gǎizào transform, reform

First Known Use

1983, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of laogai was in 1983

Dictionary Entries Near laogai

Cite this Entry

“Laogai.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/laogai. Accessed 22 Dec. 2024.

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