Defraud: meaning, definitions and examples

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defraud

 

[ dɪˈfrɔːd ]

Verb
Context #1 | Verb

in legal context

To illegally obtain money or property by deception, typically through a scam or fraudulent scheme. Defrauding often involves tricking or misleading someone into giving up their assets or valuables.

Synonyms

cheat, deceive, scam, swindle

Examples of usage

  • He was found guilty of defrauding investors out of millions of dollars.
  • The company defrauded its customers by selling fake products.
Context #2 | Verb

in general context

To deceive or trick someone in order to gain an unfair advantage or benefit. It can involve various forms of dishonesty or manipulation to exploit others for personal gain.

Synonyms

bamboozle, hoodwink, mislead, trick

Examples of usage

  • She defrauded her way into getting the promotion.
  • The politician was accused of defrauding the public with false promises.

Translations

Translations of the word "defraud" in other languages:

🇵🇹 fraudar

🇮🇳 धोखा देना

🇩🇪 betrügen

🇮🇩 menipu

🇺🇦 обдурити

🇵🇱 oszukać

🇯🇵 詐欺を働く

🇫🇷 frauder

🇪🇸 defraudar

🇹🇷 dolandırmak

🇰🇷 사기 치다

🇸🇦 احتيال

🇨🇿 podvést

🇸🇰 podviesť

🇨🇳 诈骗

🇸🇮 goljufati

🇮🇸 svíkja

🇰🇿 алдау

🇬🇪 გადაგდება

🇦🇿 aldatmaq

🇲🇽 defraudar

Etymology

The word 'defraud' originated from the Latin word 'defraudare', which means 'to cheat'. It has been used in English since the late 16th century. The concept of defrauding has been present in various forms throughout history, with instances of fraud and deception recorded in ancient civilizations. The development of laws and regulations against fraud reflects the ongoing battle against dishonest practices in society.

See also: fraud, frauds, fraudster, fraudsters, fraudulence, fraudulent, fraudulently.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #13,067, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.