Mountebanked: meaning, definitions and examples

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mountebanked

[ˈmaʊntɪˌbæŋk ]

Definition

^{Context #1 | Verb}

deceiving others

To mountebank is to employ trickery or deception to achieve a goal, often in a persuasive or showy manner. This term is frequently associated with touting fraudulent goods or services, whether for personal gain or entertainment. The term can also describe an individual who swindles or deceives others through charisma or manipulative tactics. Mountebanking is often seen in contexts where someone uses charm to lead someone into a con or scam.

Synonyms

charlatan, con artist, fraud, swindler.

Examples of usage

The street performer mountebanked his way into a crowd, selling dubious potions.
He mountebanked his audience, promising miraculous results from his magic elixirs.
She was mountebanked into investing in a false startup with fake testimonials.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word comes from the Italian 'monta in banca,' meaning to mount on a bench, where performers advertised their wares to crowds.
In 16th-century Italy, these individuals would often perform on platforms to attract attention and sell dubious products.

Historical Context

Mountebanks were common during the Renaissance period, often found in marketplaces selling potions and remedies.
These individuals often had a flair for theatrics, combining drama and deception to enhance their pitches.

Pop Culture

Mountebanks are frequently depicted in literature and film as charlatans, reflecting society’s distrust of deceptive practices.
In modern times, the term is still used to characterize certain salespeople or advertisers who stretch the truth.

Psychology

The ability to deceive others can be linked to traits such as charisma and confidence, which mountebanks often exhibit.
Research suggests that people are more likely to trust someone who presents themselves confidently, even if they are less credible.

Literature

Shakespeare's works often included mountebanks as characters, highlighting their role in society and the deception they practiced.
In classic novels, these figures often play the role of the trickster, using wit to outsmart their victims.

Translations

Translations of the word "mountebanked" in other languages:

🇵🇹 charlatão

🇮🇳 धोखेबाज़

🇩🇪 Schwindler

🇮🇩 penipu

🇺🇦 шарлатан

🇵🇱 szarlatan

🇯🇵 詐欺師

🇫🇷 charlatan

🇪🇸 charlatán

🇹🇷 şarlatan

🇰🇷 사기꾼

🇸🇦 محتال

🇨🇿 šarlatán

🇸🇰 šarlatán

🇨🇳 骗子

🇸🇮 šarlatan

🇮🇸 svikull

🇰🇿 алаяқ

🇬🇪 შარლატანი

🇦🇿 şarlatan

🇲🇽 charlatán