Embezzle

Verb

Definition: To fraudulently appropriate funds or property entrusted to one's care, typically in a workplace setting.

Synonyms: Misappropriate, Steal, Pilfer

Antonyms: Return, Reimburse, Refund

Examples:

The accountant was caught embezzling money from the company's accounts.
He embezzled a significant amount of funds from the charity organization he worked for.

Mnemonics:

'Embezzle' sounds like "em-bez-el" which may remind you of "I'm busy helping myself (el) to someone else's money."

Etymology:

Origin:

The word 'embezzle' originated in the late 15th century from the Old French word 'embesiller' meaning "to steal, take away." It is derived from the Latin word 'in-,' meaning "in" or "into," and 'basioluare', meaning "to steal with violence."

Historical Usage:

The act of embezzlement has been present throughout history, although the specific term 'embezzle' has been used since the 15th century.

Related Idioms:

Idiom:

"Embezzle money"

Explanation:

Refers to the act of unlawfully taking funds that are entrusted to one's care or responsibility.

Misconceptions:

Misconception:

Confusing embezzlement with other forms of theft or fraud.

Explanation:

Embezzlement specifically refers to the misappropriation of funds or property that one has been entrusted with, typically in a workplace setting. It differs from theft or fraud, which may involve taking someone else's property without being in a position of trust.