Murphy

noun

Mur·​phy ˈmər-fē How to pronounce Murphy (audio)
: any of various confidence games
especially : one in which the victim believes he is paying for sex

Word History

Etymology

Miss Murphy, nonexistent prostitute used to lure victims

First Known Use

1954, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of Murphy was in 1954

Phrases Containing Murphy

Dictionary Entries Near Murphy

muron

Murphy

Murphy's Law

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Cite this Entry

“Murphy.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/Murphy. Accessed 3 Dec. 2023.

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Biographical Definition

Murphy

biographical name

Mur·​phy ˈmər-fē How to pronounce Murphy (audio)
William Parry 1892–1987 American physician
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