noun / verb
scam
SKAM/skæm/
A scheme to cheat someone out of money or gain an unfair advantage.
The hidden pea makes the shell game a scam.
Etymology
Scam arose as American carnival slang for a trick or swindle. Its origin is unknown, though a connection with the older slang scamp, “cheater” or “swindler,” has been suggested.
In context
He bribed coaches to list students as fake athletes, doctorred photos, and manipulated test scores. The scam exposed not just one fraud
More examples
- The fraudsters scammed customers out of deposits.
- She recognized the investment scam immediately.
- He warned others about the scam.
Forms
scam · scams · scammed · scamming
scammer noun — someone who runs dishonest schemes
Similar words
- fraud
- Dishonest deception for gain.
- swindle
- A scheme that cheats someone of money.