swindle
UK: ˈswɪn.dəl | US: ˈswɪn.dəl
vt. to cheat or defraud someone out of money or property through deception
n. an act or instance of swindling; a fraudulent scheme
swindle = swind<deceive> + le<verb-forming suffix>
- swind (from German schwindeln, meaning "to deceive" or "to feel dizzy")
- le (a verb-forming suffix in English, often indicating repeated or habitual action)
Etymology Origin:
The word "swindle" entered English in the late 18th century, borrowed from German schwindeln, which originally meant "to feel dizzy" but later evolved to mean "to deceive." The connection lies in the idea of mental confusion or disorientation caused by deceit. The suffix "-le" was added to form a verb, emphasizing the repetitive or habitual nature of the action. Over time, "swindle" became specifically associated with financial fraud.
The con artist tried to swindle the elderly couple out of their savings.
He was arrested for running a swindle involving fake investment opportunities.
She realized too late that the email was a swindle to steal her personal information.
The company was accused of swindling customers with hidden fees.
The elaborate swindle fooled even the most cautious investors.