scam

noun

ˈskam How to pronounce scam (audio)
Definition of scamnext
as in fraud
an instance of the use of dishonest methods to acquire something of value that's just a scam to bilk insurance companies for staged accidents

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of scam Other streaming picks expose romance scams, showcase Africa’s wildlife and explore Native American struggles. — Stuart Miller, Los Angeles Times, 20 Oct. 2026 Consider using strong antivirus software that offers malicious website blocking, phishing protection and scam-link warnings. — Kurt Knutsson, FOXNews.com, 19 Oct. 2026 In addition, my colleague Kim Key has tested many such solutions, so be sure to read her analysis of the best scam-protection tools. — Neil J. Rubenking, PC Magazine, 19 Oct. 2026 According to Microsoft’s report, scammers could buy stolen or fraudulent Microsoft and Google accounts on YAM Store and use the phishing kits to send scam messages. — Stevie Bonifield, The Verge, 14 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for scam
Recent Examples of Synonyms for scam
  1. fraud
  2. swindle
  3. hoax
  4. con
  5. scheme
Noun
  • Walter also is a defendant in multiple civil lawsuits filed by investors alleging fraud and breach of contract.
    — Bill Shaikin, Los Angeles Times, 24 Oct. 2026
  • Your phone could become part of a botnet The advertising fraud is only part of the story.
    — Kurt Knutsson, FOXNews.com, 23 Oct. 2026
Definition of fraud
Noun
  • Upon joining, the young employees typically get assigned to a unit, each designed around a specific literary swindle.
    — Snigdha Poonam, The Dial, 13 Oct. 2026
  • Eventually, the great hip-hop swindle gets out of hand, and threatens to break up Billy’s relationship with longtime sweetheart Mary (Lucy Halliday).
    — Al Shipley, SPIN, 9 Oct. 2026
Definition of swindle
Noun
  • Yet, our president is dismissing all of the concerns as a hoax.
    — Voice of the People, New York Daily News, 2 Oct. 2026
  • After roughly two days of investigation, police informed the public the entire panic was driven by a hoax.
    — Hannah Fry, Los Angeles Times, 1 Oct. 2026
Definition of hoax
Noun
  • Pros & cons 5% cash back rewards on category of choice each month for Chime Prime™ members.
    — Dan Avery, CNBC, 21 Oct. 2026
  • Running errands and a real estate con What follows comes from the referee’s report and the probable cause affidavits after Morin and Corcoran’s arrests.
    — David J. Neal, Miami Herald, 11 Oct. 2026
Definition of con
Noun
  • Democrats, meanwhile, called the dividend proposal a vote-buying scheme.
    — Chad de Guzman, Time, 21 Oct. 2026
  • Disney actor Erik von Detten is being sued for allegedly scamming an elderly couple in a bizarre precious-metals scheme.
    — Emily St. Martin, Los Angeles Times, 21 Oct. 2026
Definition of scheme

Browse Nearby Words

scaly
scam
scammer
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Scam.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/scam. Accessed 25 Oct. 2026.

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