Skullduggery
Noun
Definition: Underhand, unscrupulous, or dishonest behavior or activities.
Synonyms: Trickery, Deceit, Deception
Antonyms: Honesty, Integrity
- The politician was involved in skullduggery to gain an unfair advantage.
- The company's CEO was exposed for engaging in skullduggery to cover up financial fraud.
- Think of "skull" and "duggery" together, forming an image of sinister and clandestine activities.
Etymology:
The word "skullduggery" originated in the mid-19th century. It is a combination of "skull" (referring to the head, representing the mind or intellect) and "duggery" (an alteration of "dodgery," meaning craftiness or deception). It likely evolved as a term to describe deceitful or cunning actions.
Historical Usage:"Skullduggery" has been used primarily in informal or colloquial contexts to denote dishonest behavior or underhanded tactics.
Related Idioms:
"Engage in skullduggery"
Explanation:To actively participate in or carry out deceitful or dishonest activities.
Misconceptions:
Confusing "skullduggery" with simple mischief or pranks.
Explanation:While mischief and pranks can be mischievous or playful in nature, "skullduggery" specifically refers to dishonest or underhanded actions. It implies a more serious level of deceit and manipulation.