Peculator: meaning, definitions and examples
💰
peculator
[ ˈpɛkjʊˌleɪtə ]
crime, finance
A peculator is an individual who embezzles or misappropriates funds or property that is entrusted to them. This term is often used in legal contexts to describe someone who illegally takes money or assets for personal gain. The act of peculation typically involves a violation of trust and is often perpetrated by individuals in positions of authority or responsibility. Peculators can be found in various sectors, including government, business, and non-profits, where they exploit their access to financial resources.
Synonyms
crook, embezzler, swindler, thief
Examples of usage
- The accountant was arrested for peculation of company funds.
- The investigation revealed a long history of peculators within the organization.
- He was charged with peculation after diverting donations for personal use.
Translations
Translations of the word "peculator" in other languages:
🇵🇹 peculador
🇮🇳 घोटालेबाज़
🇩🇪 Unterschleicher
🇮🇩 penipu
🇺🇦 пекулянт
🇵🇱 oszust
🇯🇵 詐欺師
🇫🇷 escroc
🇪🇸 estafador
🇹🇷 dolandırıcı
🇰🇷 사기꾼
🇸🇦 محتال
🇨🇿 podvodník
🇸🇰 podvodník
🇨🇳 诈骗者
🇸🇮 prevarant
🇮🇸 svikull
🇰🇿 алаяқ
🇬🇪 ყალბი
🇦🇿 fırıldaqçı
🇲🇽 estafador
Etymology
The word 'peculator' derives from the Latin 'peculator', which means 'to embezzle'. This Latin term comes from 'peculatus', which itself is formed from 'peculum' meaning 'property' or 'ownership', and the root 'pecus', meaning 'cattle' or 'wealth'. Historically, the term was used to describe individuals who misappropriated public funds or resources, particularly in ancient Rome where financial misconduct was taken very seriously. The evolution of the term reflects the ongoing concerns about trust and corruption in both governmental and private sectors throughout history. The use of 'peculator' became more widespread in English during the 19th century, particularly in legal and financial discussions, as economies became more complex and the potential for financial misconduct increased.