Meaning & Definition of word "Scam"
to
Scam
/skæm/
noun:
- 1. A fraudulent scheme or deception designed to con someone out of money or valuables.
- Example: The elderly woman fell victim to a phone scam that promised her a cash prize.
- 2. An act or instance of fraud.
- Example: The investment scam left many people in financial ruin.
- 3. A trick or con that aims to cheat someone.
- Example: He warned his friends about the latest online scam targeting young students.
verb:
- 1. To cheat or defraud someone, especially by means of a deceptive scheme.
- Example: They scammed him out of his savings by pretending to be a legitimate charity.
Etymology
Origin uncertain; possibly derived from 'scamp' or from 'scamper' with unknown influence.
Common Phrases and Expressions
get scammed:
to be tricked or deceived, especially financially.
scam artist:
a person who engages in scams.
scam alert:
a warning about potential scams.
pull a scam:
to conduct a scam or deception.
Internet scam:
a scam that occurs online, often involving false marketing or phishing.
Related Words
fraud:
Wrongful or criminal deception intended for financial or personal gain.
deception:
The act of deceiving someone.
con artist:
A person who tricks others by convincing them to believe something that is not true.
Slang Meanings of scam
Meaning: To scam someone.
Example Sentence: He totally scammed me out of my money!
Meaning: Getting scammed.
Example Sentence: Don't get scammed, do your research first.
Meaning: Scamming you.
Example Sentence: They're just scamming you for your cash.