Bilked Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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bilked
[bɪlk ]
Definition
fraudulent activity
To bilk someone means to cheat or defraud them out of money or something of value. This term often implies deception or trickery, where the victim is led to believe they are participating in a legitimate transaction. Bilking can occur in various contexts, including business dealings, gambling, or even personal relationships. The act is typically premeditated, with the intent to gain financially at the expense of someone else.
Synonyms
cheat, defraud, dupe, swindle.
Examples of usage
- He was bilked out of his savings by a fraudulent investment scheme.
- The con artist bilked unsuspecting tourists with fake tours.
- She felt bilked when her friend failed to repay the loan.
- The company was found to have bilked its investors for millions.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Pop Culture
- The word has often been used in film and literature to describe cunning characters in heist stories.
- It's a common theme in crime dramas, where characters use tricks to outsmart others.
Psychology
- People who are bilked often experience feelings of betrayal and embarrassment, impacting their trust in others.
- This term is linked to the psychology of scams, where emotional manipulation plays a key role in deceiving victims.
Legal Context
- Bilk can also refer to fraudulent practices that lead to criminal charges such as fraud or embezzlement.
- Understanding this term is crucial in law enforcement when investigating financial crimes.
Literature
- The theme of deception and being bilked can be found in classic literature, illustrating human greed and naivety.
- Many novels explore the dynamics between a bilker and their victim, often highlighting moral lessons.
Origin of 'bilked'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'bilked' comes from the late 17th century, initially meaning to cheat or defraud.
- It is believed to be derived from the dialectical word 'bilk,' meaning to trick.
The term 'bilked' has its origins in the early 17th century, derived from the dialectal word 'bilk', which meant to cheat or to deceive. The word likely has roots in the Old Norse word 'bilka', meaning 'to deceive'. Over time, it began to take on the specific connotation of fraudulently obtaining money or property. In the 18th century, the term started appearing more frequently in legal contexts, as laws began to evolve to combat financial fraud. By the 19th century, 'bilk' became a common term in American English, especially in relation to financial crimes and scams. Today, it retains its original meaning but is frequently used in discussions involving scams, robberies, and other forms of financial deceit.