fraudulent
UK: ˈfrɔːdʒələnt | US: ˈfrɔːdʒələnt
adj. involving or characterized by deceit or trickery
adj. intended to deceive; dishonest
adj. legally invalid due to deception
The word "fraudulent" traces back to Latin fraudulentus, derived from fraus (deceit) + the adjectival suffix -ulentus. The root fraus originally referred to harm or wrongdoing, later narrowing to deceitful acts. The suffix -ulentus amplifies the root, giving the sense of "abounding in deceit." Over time, the term evolved in English (14th century) to describe actions or entities tainted by intentional deception, reflecting its legal and moral connotations.
The company was fined for fraudulent advertising claims.
She discovered fraudulent charges on her credit card statement.
The contract was declared void due to fraudulent misrepresentation.
His fraudulent behavior undermined trust in the organization.
Authorities arrested the group for running a fraudulent investment scheme.