cozen
UK: ˈkʌz(ə)n | US: ˈkʌz(ə)n
vt. to deceive or persuade someone dishonestly, often through flattery or trickery
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The word "cozen" likely originates from the obsolete French term cousiner, meaning "to claim kinship for dishonest purposes." It entered English in the late 16th century, evolving to broadly signify deception or manipulation, especially through false pretenses or charm. Its murky spelling suggests a fused form without separable modern morphemes.
The salesman tried to cozen the elderly couple into buying an overpriced warranty.
She realized too late that his sweet words were just an attempt to cozen her trust.
Politicians often cozen voters with empty promises during campaigns.
He was known to cozen his way out of trouble with a disarming smile.
The con artist specialized in cozen wealthy investors with fake schemes.