Cheat

Definition

Cheat is a noun and a verb. As a verb, it means to act dishonestly or unfairly to gain an advantage, particularly in a game, test, or relationship. As a noun, it refers to a person who deceives others or to an act of dishonesty.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ʧit/
• Respelling: cheet

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ʧiːt/
• Respelling: cheet

The pronunciation of "cheat" is identical in both American and British English.

Etymology

The word "cheat" originates from the Old French "escheat," meaning "to fall to the king," referring to property that reverts to the lord when an owner dies without heirs. In Middle English, the term evolved to mean "confiscate" and later acquired meanings related to deceit and trickery.

Derivatives

• Cheating (noun/verb)
• Cheater (noun)
• Cheat-proof (adjective)
• Cheated (adjective)
• Cheatsheet (noun)

Synonyms

• Deceive
• Trick
• Dishonesty

Antonyms

• Honesty
• Integrity
• Fairness

Usage

The term "cheat" is used to describe actions that involve dishonesty or deceit, as in "He was caught cheating on the exam." It is also used to describe a person known for deceitful behavior, as in "She is known as a cheat in card games."

Related Terms

• Fraud: Wrongful or criminal deception intended for personal gain.
• Deception: The act of deceiving or misleading.
• Trickery: The use of tricks to deceive or cheat.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• A person who acts dishonestly or unfairly to gain an advantage: Refers to an individual known for deceitful behavior.
  • Example: "He was labeled a cheat after he broke the rules."
• An act of dishonesty or deceit: Describes an instance of cheating or breaking rules.
  • Example: "Using a cheat in the game is against the rules."

Verb

• To act dishonestly or unfairly to gain an advantage: Commonly used to describe deceit in games, exams, or relationships.
  • Example: "She was caught cheating on her test."
• To deceive or trick someone: Used to indicate misleading or fooling another person.
  • Example: "They cheated customers by overcharging."