fleece
UK: fliːs | US: fliːs
n. the woolly covering of a sheep or similar animal
n. a soft fabric made from or resembling wool
vt. to strip of money or possessions through deceit; to swindle
The word "fleece" traces back to Old English flēos, meaning "wool" or "fleece," derived from Proto-Germanic flusaz. It shares roots with Old High German flos and Old Norse fljóss, all referring to wool or animal hair. Over time, "fleece" retained its literal meaning while also developing a figurative sense ("to swindle") in the 16th century, likening the act of stripping someone of valuables to shearing wool from a sheep.
The shepherd sheared the fleece from his sheep in spring.
Her coat was lined with synthetic fleece for warmth.
The scam artist fleeced tourists by selling fake tickets.
Alpaca fleece is softer than traditional sheep’s wool.
The company was accused of fleecing customers with hidden fees.