defraud
dee-FRAWd
/dɪˈfrɔːd/
To illegally obtain money from (someone) by deception.
Defraud is the active verb form of fraud. It specifically means to trick or cheat someone out of something valuable, usually money or property, through dishonest means. It emphasizes the act of deception against a victim.
The story behind the word. Just like 'fraud,' 'defraud' traces its lineage back to the Latin 'fraus,' meaning 'deceit' or 'injury.' The prefix 'de-' here emphasizes the act of taking something away. It entered English through Old French 'defrauder,' meaning 'to cheat, deprive.' So, to 'defraud' is quite literally to 'de-ceive' someone, to take something from them through trickery and dishonesty, embodying the core meaning of its ancient root.
Word relationships
- swindle: Often implies a more elaborate or cunning scheme to cheat someone out of money.
- cheat: Broader term, can apply to games, tests, or general dishonesty, not always financial.
- deceive: To cause someone to believe something that is not true, not necessarily for financial gain.
- compensate: To give someone something, typically money, in recognition of loss, suffering, or injury.
- reimburse: To repay (a person who has spent or lost money).
Commonly confused with
- cheat: 'Cheat' is a broader term for acting dishonestly. 'Defraud' specifically means to cheat someone out of money or property through deception, making it a more specific and legally charged term.
Word family
- defrauder (noun): A person who defrauds.
Collocations
- defraud someone of
- attempt to defraud
- conspire to defraud
Example sentences
- "The con artist was found guilty of attempting to defraud elderly citizens of their savings." Reporting on a criminal conviction.
- "He used a complex scheme to defraud the insurance company of millions of dollars." Discussing financial crimes.
Memory hook
To DEFRAUD is to DE-ceive someone, taking their FRee lOAD of money away. DE-ceive and FRee lOAD
When not to use
Do not use 'defraud' for general lying or misrepresentation that doesn't result in illegally obtaining something from another person.
Fun facts
- The verb 'defraud' is often used in legal charges, such as 'conspiracy to defraud' or 'intent to defraud.'
Explore more words
counterfeit, collusion, graft, subterfuge, chicanery, deceitful
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