Grifter

Definition Meaning

A person who exploits a cause or situation for personal benefit, often manipulating others for their own desires.

Part of Speech

• noun

Usage Examples

• The grifter took advantage of the charity event to line his own pockets.
• She was labeled a grifter after exploiting the political cause for personal gain.

Synonyms

• con artist
• swindler
• scammer

Antonyms

• altruist
• philanthropist

Related Words

• fraud
• scam
• manipulation

Disambiguating Definition

A grifter uses a supposed cause to manipulate people for personal gain.

Word History

The term grifter originated in the early 20th century and was used to describe individuals who swindled others for a living. The word is believed to have originated from the earlier slang term 'grift,' which means a swindle or fraud. 'Grift' itself is thought to have roots in the late 19th century American slang, possibly derived from the German word 'griffig' meaning 'grubby' or 'dirty.'

Word Illustration

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