shell games

noun

plural of shell game
as in scams
an instance of the use of dishonest methods to acquire something of value it's amazing how intelligent people fall for that investment-fund shell game

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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 shell games Fortunately, the authors of the study point out several things states can and should do to prevent these kinds of financial shell games. — Peter Ubel, Forbes.com, 31 July 2026 Budget shell games, in other words. — The Editorial Board, Oc Register, 21 Oct. 2025
Recent Examples of Synonyms for shell games
scams
Noun
  • The report urged Congress to pass pending legislation that would mandate a unified federal strategy to combat scams and establish a central location for victims to report losses and seek help.
    — ABC News, ABC News, 27 Oct. 2026
  • Citing findings from a yearlong investigation into global scams by the Associated Press and the investigative program Frontline, the report called for greater collaboration across agencies, support for victims and deeper private sector engagement.
    — Erika Kinetz, Los Angeles Times, 27 Oct. 2026
Definition of scams

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shell game
shell games
shelling
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Cite this Entry

“Shell games.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/shell%20games. Accessed 3 Nov. 2026.

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