Swindled: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• The term comes from the word 'swindle', which has roots in the German word 'schwindel', meaning 'to deceive'.
• It first appeared in print in the early 19th century, reflecting a growing awareness of financial fraud.
• The word 'swindler' describes someone who commits such tricks; it has been used since the late 1800s.

Historical Context

• In the 1700s, swindling often involved con artists who traveled the countryside pretending to be wealthy gentlemen.
• The famous 'South Sea Bubble' in 1720 is an example of mass investment swindling that left many people penniless.
• Pyramid schemes, which deceive people into investing in a fake business, have roots in the concept of swindling.

Psychology

• Persuasion techniques are commonly used by swindlers, exploiting psychological biases to manipulate victims.
• Research shows that certain traits, like gullibility, can increase the likelihood of being swindled.
• Fear of missing out (FOMO) can lead individuals to make hasty decisions, often exploited by swindlers.

Pop Culture

• Movies like 'Catch Me If You Can' illustrate the cunning of swindlers and their elaborate schemes.
• Literature often features swindlers as characters, such as in Mark Twain's 'The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn', showing the moral complexities of deception.
• Reality television sometimes highlights swindlers and the consequences of their actions, often drawing audiences' fascination.

Legal Aspect

• Swindling is classified as fraud in many legal systems, carrying severe penalties for those convicted.
• Consumer protection laws aim to prevent swindling by regulating businesses and enforcing truthful advertising.
• Historically, swindling laws have evolved to adapt to new forms of deception, such as online scams.

This word's position of #31,292 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.

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• 31289 tabby
• 31290 waddled
• 31291 idealizing
• 31292 swindled
• 31293 testily
• 31294 enforcer
• 31295 happenstance
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