scam

[skam] / skæm /

NOUN

swindle

Synonyms

STRONGEST

blackmail deceit deception extortion fraud hoax racket ripoff shakedown sham

STRONG

cheating con double-dealing flimflam hosing hustle sting

WEAK

con game crooked deal dirty pool double cross fast one shady deal shell game snow job sucker game

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

The organization received 3 million reports from scam victims last year, reporting a total of $15.9 billion in losses.

From MarketWatch • May 22, 2026

Which was part of the scam, of course.

From MarketWatch • May 22, 2026

It’s not clear if the alleged scam had any connection to the deaths of the couple.

From Los Angeles Times • May 21, 2026

While Sri Lankan officials say they have not identified foreigners being trafficked into the country, dozens of Sri Lankans have been rescued from scam compounds abroad over the past year.

From Barron's • May 17, 2026

As a result of the scam, Woodhull tricked the seventy-four-year-old tycoon into believing she and her sister had mystical powers.

From "Votes for Women!" by Winifred Conkling

Vocabulary lists containing scam

Smoke and Mirrors: The Lingo of Illusion and Deception

Looking to grow your vocabulary? Check out this interactive, curated word list from our team of English language specialists at Vocabulary.com – one of over 17,000 lists we've built to help learners worldwide!

"Imperfect Me"

Interested in learning more words like this one? Our team at Vocabulary.com has got you covered! You can review flashcards, quiz yourself, practice spelling, and more – and it's all completely free to use!

Simply Scandalous!

Want to remember this word for good? Start your learning journey today with our library of interactive, themed word lists built by the experts at Vocabulary.com – we'll help you make the most of your study time!