scam
|scam|
B2
/skæm/
fraudulent scheme
Etymology
Etymology Information
'scam' originates from American slang, possibly a variant of 'scheme,' where 'scheme' meant 'a plan or plot.'
Historical Evolution
'scheme' transformed into the American slang 'scam,' and eventually became the modern English word 'scam.'
Meaning Changes
Initially, it meant 'a plan or plot,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'a fraudulent scheme.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
a fraudulent scheme or operation designed to deceive and cheat someone out of money or other assets.
The email was a scam designed to steal personal information.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Verb 1
to deceive or cheat someone by means of a scam.
They scammed him out of his life savings.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Idioms
Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:40