The word “customs” has a few different meanings in English:
1. **Cultural Practices**: Customs refer to the traditional practices, rituals, or behaviors that are accepted and followed by a particular group of people or society. These can include social norms, celebrations, and ways of life that are passed down through generations.
2. **Government Agency**: Customs also refers to the governmental authority responsible for regulating the flow of goods into and out of a country. This includes the collection of tariffs and duties on imported and exported goods, as well as the enforcement of laws related to trade and immigration.
3. **Duties and Tariffs**: In this context, customs can also mean the taxes or duties imposed by a government on the import and export of goods.
In summary, “customs” can pertain to societal traditions or practices, a government agency overseeing international trade, or the taxes related to trade activities.