Meaning & Definition of word "Embezzle"

Embezzle

/ɪmˈbɛz.əl/

1. to misappropriate (money or property) entrusted to one's care, typically in violation of a trust.
- Example: The accountant was found guilty of embezzling funds from the company's accounts.
2. to take (money or property) for one's personal use in violation of trust.
- Example: She was accused of embezzling thousands of dollars from her charitable organization.
3. to steal or misappropriate (assets) with the intention of using them for personal benefit.
- Example: His scheme to embezzle large sums of money was uncovered during the audit.
4. to deliberately use funds that were intended for a specific purpose for personal gain.
- Example: The employee tried to embezzle donations intended for the local shelter.

From the Old French word 'embezzler', meaning to misappropriate.

embezzlement scheme:

A plan to steal funds through manipulation or deceit.

caught red-handed:

To be caught in the act of committing a crime, especially embezzling.

cook the books:

To falsify financial records to hide embezzlement.

misappropriation:

The act of taking something for one's own use, typically money or property, without the owner's permission.

fraud:

Wrongful or criminal deception intended to result in financial or personal gain.

theft:

The action of stealing; the unlawful taking of personal property.

Meaning: skimming

Example Sentence: He's been skimming off the top of the profits at the bar.

Meaning: rob Peter to pay Paul

Example Sentence: He had to rob Peter to pay Paul when he embezzled money from the project.