Embezzlement Meaning and Definition

Pronunciation

/em.bɪz.mənt/ 🔊

Part of Speech

Noun

Definition

The act of dishonestly taking or misusing money, property, or another’s resources, typically by someone who has been entrusted with their management or protection.

Examples

• The company accountant was accused of embezzlement and lost her job.
• The news of embezzlement led to the organization’s loss of public trust.

Synonyms

• Theft
• Pilferage

Antonyms

• Accountability
• Honesty

Etymology

The word “embezzlement” comes from the Spanish verb “embezar,” meaning “to steal” or “toappropriate.”

Usage Notes

Embezzlement is often used in a business or professional context, particularly in cases of financial mismanagement or corporate fraud.

Cultural References

Embezzlement has been portrayed in various films, television shows, and books, such as “The Wolf of Wall Street” and “The Big Short.”

Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases

“Embezzling” is often used idiomatically to describe someone who is dishonestly taking advantage of a situation or exploiting others for personal gain.

Related Words or Phrases

Words closely related to embezzlement include corruption, fraud, and theft.

Collocations

Common collocations with embezzlement include “company lawyer,” “auditor’s report,” and “financial investigation.”

Frequency of Use

Embezzlement is a relatively rare word, but its usage has increased in recent years due to high-profile cases of corporate fraud and financial scandals.