Which statement correctly defines the term "piracy"?

The term "piracy" is defined as the act of stealing from a ship on the high seas. This definition aligns accurately with historical and legal interpretations of piracy, which involve unauthorized acts of violence or theft carried out at sea. Pirates typically engage in these illegal activities without the permission of any nation or government, making their actions criminal under international law.

Other options, while related to maritime activities, do not accurately encompass the definition of piracy. Legal actions taken during wartime, such as the capturing of enemy ships, usually occur under the scope of maritime law and are formally recognized as legitimate acts, distinguishing them from piracy. Similarly, attacking a ship with a naval force implies a lawful military operation or engagement rather than criminal activity. Transporting goods without customs clearance pertains to smuggling or illegal trade practices and does not specifically involve acts against ships at sea, which are central to the definition of piracy. Thus, the first choice accurately encapsulates the essence of piracy as a criminal act occurring on the open seas.