Crook: meaning, definitions and examples

Often used to describe someone who is dishonest or engages in petty crime, and can also imply someone who is duplicitous.

• The politician was revealed to be a crook involved in multiple corrupt activities.
• Don't trust him, he's a crook who has cheated many people.

A general term for someone who has committed a crime, often used in a legal or formal context.

• The police arrested the criminal after a lengthy investigation.
• Being a criminal carries serious consequences under the law.

Describes someone who steals tangible property from another person, typically without using force.

• The thief was caught trying to steal a wallet from an unsuspecting tourist.
• After the burglary, the thief sold the stolen goods on the black market.

Specifically refers to someone who cheats or defrauds others to gain money or assets, often involving elaborate schemes.

• The swindler deceived elderly people into investing in his fake company.
• Be careful, that swindler will trick you into giving him your life savings.

Used to describe something that is bent or twisted out of shape, often in a negative or irregular way.

• The old man's fingers were all crooked with arthritis
• He was holding a stick with a crook at the top

Used to describe a change in direction or to curve something by applying pressure. Can be used both literally and figuratively.

• She had to bend the metal rod to fit the frame
• The road bends sharply to the left

Used to describe a smooth, continuous bending without sharp angles, often used in geometry or to describe shapes in nature.

• The road followed the gentle curve of the river
• She admired the graceful curve of the dancer's movements

Used to describe changing direction or position. This word has many uses, including literal and figurative applications in navigation, movement, and events.

• He asked her to turn right at the next traffic light
• The conversation took an unexpected turn