Definitions

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.

"It was such an elaborate scam," she said.

From BBC • Jun. 9, 2026

Some scam sites target job hunters, promising meetings with World Cup employees whose names and photos were lifted from LinkedIn.

From Barron's • Jun. 3, 2026

Eventually, a selfie from Fred smiling at the game returned her to reality: the call, she realized, was an elaborate scam.

From Barron's • Jun. 3, 2026

Even replying “STOP” to a smishing text can increase the number of scam messages you receive, because it confirms someone is actively using the phone number.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 28, 2026

They had run a scam to get a shot of Nicole and auction it off to the highest bidder, splitting the take, end of story.

From "Burning Blue" by Paul Griffin

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!