Bilk

Verb

Definition: To cheat or defraud, especially of money; to evade payment.

Synonyms: Deceive, Swindle, Scam

Antonyms: Compensate, Reimburse

Examples:

The salesman bilked unsuspecting customers out of their savings.
The company was accused of bilking its employees by withholding their wages.

Mnemonics:

Think of someone "bilk"ing money out of your pocket.

Etymology:

Origin:

The word "bilk" originated in the late 17th century and has uncertain origins. It possibly derived from the Middle English word "bilken" meaning to "cheat" or "bilk", or from the German word "bilken" meaning to "loaf" or "yawn".

Historical Usage:

The exact historical usage and changes in meaning are not well-documented. However, the concept of cheating or swindling has been present in various societies throughout history.

Related Idioms:

Idiom:

"Bilk someone out of something"

Explanation:

To deceive or cheat someone out of something valuable, usually involving money.

Misconceptions:

Misconception:

Confusing "bilk" with "bulk".

Explanation:

"Bilk" and "bulk" are two separate words with different meanings. "Bilk" refers to cheating or defrauding, while "bulk" refers to the size or volume of something.