fraud
FRODD
/frɔːd/
Wrongful or criminal deception intended to result in financial or personal gain.
Broad umbrella term for intentional deception to deprive someone of property or rights.
The story behind the word. From Old French 'fraude' and Latin 'fraus' (cheating, deceit, injury). In Roman law, 'fraus' denoted intentional dishonesty designed to break faith with another party.
Word relationships
- deceit: Deceit is the act of misleading; fraud implies illegal gain resulting from deceit.
- swindle: Swindle is an informal or popular term for financial fraud.
- authenticity: Genuineness and honesty without intent to deceive.
Commonly confused with
- embezzlement: Fraud involves general deception to take money; embezzlement specifically involves misusing money already under your lawful control.
Word family
- fraudulent (adjective): Obtained or done by fraud.
- fraudster (noun): A person who commits fraud.
Collocations
- commit fraud
- wire fraud
- securities fraud
- victim of fraud
- bank fraud
Idioms & expressions
- pull the wool over someone's eyes
Example sentences
- "He was convicted of wire fraud after operating a fake investment fund that stole millions." Criminal Law
- "Fraud must be proved by showing that the defendant knowingly made a false representation." Legal Definition
Memory hook
A FRAUD makes FAUX (fake) claims. Intentional deception for financial gain.
When not to use
Do not use for honest mistakes or simple breach of contract without intent to deceive.
Fun facts
- In legal claims, proving fraud requires showing 'scienter'—that the party knew their statement was false when making it.
Related words
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