fudge
fudge Lexical Profile
fudge Game Scores & Validity
• noun
A rich, soft confection typically made of sugar, milk or cream, and butter, often flavored with chocolate.
"She bought a box of assorted chocolate and vanilla fudge from the local candy shop."
An attempt to avoid making a firm decision or giving a clear answer; a compromise that dodges the main issue.
"The new environmental policy is a political fudge that fails to satisfy anyone."
• verb
To tamper with or falsify facts, figures, or records in order to present a more favorable picture.
"The accountant was fired after it was discovered he fudged the quarterly financial numbers."
To avoid committing oneself or giving a direct answer; to deal with a situation vaguely.
"When asked about the project's deadline, the manager fudged and changed the subject."
Word Nuance & Usage
As a verb, 'fudge' implies a mild, almost casual form of deceit or evasion rather than outright malicious fraud. As an interjection, it frequently serves as a socially acceptable minced oath for 'fuck'.
• Rhymes for fudge
Word Origin & Etymology
First recorded in the late 17th century meaning 'to turn out as expected' or 'to fit together clumsily', of uncertain origin. The candy sense appeared in American English in the late 19th century, supposedly from a batch of caramels that was 'fudged' (ruined).
Usage Trend
Historical frequency of usage in published text.