Schemers Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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schemers

[ˈskiːmər ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

programming

A person who writes computer programs, especially in a clever or dishonest way.

Synonyms

developer, hacker, programmer.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
schemers

Used to describe people who plan or plot, often with a negative or secretive motive. This term can have negative connotations.

  • The schemers hatched a plan to take over the company.
  • Be careful of them; they're known as schemers.
programmer

Similar to a developer, this term describes someone who writes computer code. It’s neutral and used across various contexts within software development.

  • The programmer wrote a new feature for the app.
  • She is a skilled programmer with expertise in multiple languages.
hacker

Can refer to someone who explores and manipulates systems, often with a focus on cybersecurity. This term can have both negative (illegal activities) and positive (ethical hacking) connotations, depending on the context.

  • The hacker breached the company's security systems.
  • He is an ethical hacker who helps organizations secure their data.
developer

Refers to someone who creates software or applications. This is a professional and neutral term widely used in the tech industry.

  • The developer fixed the bug in the software.
  • She works as a web developer at a tech company.

Examples of usage

  • The hackers were skilled schemers, constantly finding new ways to breach security systems.
  • She was considered a brilliant schemer, always coming up with innovative solutions to complex coding problems.
Context #2 | Noun

general

A person who makes secret plans, especially to do something harmful or illegal.

Synonyms

conspirator, manipulator, plotter.

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Word Description / Examples
plotter

Refers to someone who secretly makes plans to achieve a particular goal, usually with sinister or harmful intentions. The word often has a negative connotation.

  • The plotter outlined every detail of the heist.
  • They caught the plotter red-handed, foiling the attack.
conspirator

Used mainly to describe someone involved in a secret plan, typically with illegal or harmful intentions. This word often has a negative connotation.

  • The police arrested the conspirator before they could execute their plan.
  • History remembers them as conspirators in the infamous revolution.
manipulator

Describes someone who controls or influences others in a clever, unfair, or selfish way. This term carries a strongly negative connotation.

  • He's a skilled manipulator, always twisting situations to his advantage.
  • Beware of manipulators who try to exploit your trust.

Examples of usage

  • The schemers plotted to overthrow the government and seize power.
  • She was known as a cunning schemer, always manipulating situations to her advantage.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Pop Culture

  • In the world of movies, schemers often appear as the villains, crafting elaborate plots against heroes, like in 'Ocean's Eleven'.
  • Notable literary characters such as Iago from 'Othello' exemplify schemers, as they manipulate others to achieve their dark ambitions.
  • Reality TV shows frequently feature schemers, as contestants devise strategies to outwit their competition for prizes.

Psychology

  • Research shows that individuals identified as schemers may possess certain personality traits, such as high levels of narcissism or Machiavellianism.
  • People who engage in scheming often employ cognitive biases, such as the 'illusion of control' to believe they can manipulate outcomes.
  • Studies indicate that schemers may feel a sense of thrill from their plots, deriving excitement from the uncertainty and risk involved.

History

  • Historical figures like Machiavelli, known for his political scheming, illustrated how cunning plans can influence power dynamics.
  • The infamous 'Catiline Conspiracy' in ancient Rome showcases how schemers can threaten political stability through elaborate plots.
  • The concept of scheming has appeared throughout different cultures, often linked to folklore where characters deceive others for personal gain.

Literature

  • In classic literature, schemers often serve as catalysts for conflict, driving the narrative through their ambiguous motives.
  • The character of Heathcliff from 'Wuthering Heights' exhibits scheming behavior to achieve revenge and reshape his social standing.
  • Contemporary novels frequently feature morally ambiguous protagonists who employ scheming to navigate complex social landscapes.

Origin of 'schemers'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'schemer' comes from the verb 'scheme', which has roots in the Greek word 'schēma', meaning 'form' or 'appearance'.
  • Initially, the term 'scheme' had neutral connotations, describing a plan or design before taking on a more negative meaning.
  • The use of 'schemer' as a derogatory term began appearing in the 19th century, implying deceit and manipulation.

The word 'schemers' is derived from the verb 'scheme', which dates back to the late 14th century. It originated from the Old French word 'escheme', meaning 'form' or 'shape'. Over time, the meaning of 'scheme' evolved to include the idea of making secret plans or plots. The term 'schemer' emerged in the 19th century to describe someone who engages in such secretive planning or plotting.


See also: schemer, schemes, scheming.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #35,052, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.