schemer

[ skee-mer ]

noun

1. someone who devises plans or plots, especially underhanded ones:

   She is one of the memorable characters in literature, a born schemer and social climber unencumbered by any need to tell the truth.

Word History and Origins

Origin of schemer¹

scheme ( def ) + -er ¹

Example Sentences

The bank, which goes by the name TD Bank in the U.S., facilitated the laundering of more than a half-billion dollars by human traffickers, fentanyl dealers, a major Ponzi schemer and others.

From Los Angeles Times

If Ida B. Wells were alive today, she’d be fighting for facts and challenging the dishonest schemers.

From Salon

The glow of paradise is offset by the stench of crime, usually committed by craven schemers.

From Los Angeles Times

Though he is the series’ most charming character — due largely to Rheon’s own charisma — seemingly a decent boss and good to poor children, Tenax is also a schemer, a cheat and much worse.

From Los Angeles Times

Emerson credits his Shakespearean training — twice he played Iago, the chatty schemer of “Othello” — for his ability to keep viewers on edge.

From New York Times

Related Words

• rascal
• rogue