scam

[ skam ]

noun

1. a confidence game or other fraudulent scheme, especially for making a quick profit; swindle.

verb (used with object)

, scammed, scam·ming.

1. to cheat or defraud with a scam.

scam

/ skæm /

noun

1. a stratagem for gain; a swindle

verb

1. tr to swindle (someone) by means of a trick

Other Words From

• scammer noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of scam¹

1960–65; originally carnival argot; of obscure origin

Example Sentences

This return scam involved purchasing broken electronics off the auction site and then buying new items off store shelves.

From The Daily Beast

But the procedure, unlike scam solutions marketed online—miracle tonics, pricey at-home laser therapy combs—absolutely works.

From The Daily Beast

Earning ownership had come to feel like a scam—even when it came to the things that we felt made life worth living.

From The Daily Beast

The Wounded Warrior Project is certainly not a scam, nor an ill-meaning charity.

From The Daily Beast

Clients who are wary of online transactions are liable to see escorts with print ads as less likely to cheat or scam  them.

From The Daily Beast

They let the victims profit in the first round or two of the scam.

From Project Gutenberg

(a) A jar not properly vulcanized may come apart at the scam.

From Project Gutenberg

Related Words

• blackmail
• deceit
• deception
• extortion
• fraud
• hoax
• racket
• ripoff
• shakedown
• sham