embezzle
|em-bez-zle|
B2
/ɪmˈbɛzəl/
misappropriate funds
Etymology
Etymology Information
'embezzle' originates from Old French, specifically the word 'embesiller,' where 'em-' meant 'in' and 'besillier' meant 'to destroy or ruin.'
Historical Evolution
'embesiller' transformed into the Middle English word 'embesilen,' and eventually became the modern English word 'embezzle.'
Meaning Changes
Initially, it meant 'to destroy or ruin,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'to misappropriate funds.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Verb 1
to secretly take money that is in your care or that belongs to an organization or business you work for.
The accountant was caught trying to embezzle funds from the company.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Idioms
Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:35