Langimage
English

swindle

|swin/dle|

B2

/ˈswɪndl/

deception for gain

Etymology
Etymology Information

'swindle' originates from German, specifically the word 'schwindeln,' where 'schwindel' meant 'dizziness or fraud.'

Historical Evolution

'schwindeln' transformed into the English word 'swindle' in the 18th century.

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'to cause dizziness or confusion,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'to cheat or defraud.'

Meanings by Part of Speech

Noun 1

a fraudulent scheme or action.

The entire operation was a swindle from the start.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Verb 1

to cheat or defraud someone of money or possessions.

He swindled thousands of dollars from unsuspecting investors.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:39