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Definition of swindle

swindle

/ˈswɪn.dəl/
swin · dle
Plural:swindles
•
Past Simple:swindled
•
Past Participle:swindled
•
Present Participle:swindling
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swindle Lexical Profile

swindle Game Scores & Validity

• verb

1

To use deception to deprive someone of money or possessions; to obtain money or property fraudulently.

Example

"The dishonest contractor tried to swindle elderly homeowners out of their retirement funds."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for swindle

• noun

1

A fraudulent scheme or action used to cheat someone out of money or possessions.

Example

"Thousands of investors lost their savings in the elaborate real estate swindle."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for swindle

• Rhymes for swindle

• Nearby Words

swimsuit
swimsuited
swimwear
swindle
swindler
swine
swineherd

Word Origin & Etymology

Formed in the late 18th century as a back-formation from "swindler," which was borrowed from the German "Schwindler" (meaning an extravagant project-maker or cheat), ultimately from "schwindeln" (to be dizzy or to act extravagantly).

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Swindle. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/swindle
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