- Today's Word
Skullduggery
[SKUL-dug-uh-ree]
Definition
- (noun) Underhanded or unscrupulous behavior; it often involves trickery, deception, or clandestine activities. This term is used to describe dishonest, devious, or fraudulent conduct, typically carried out in a secretive manner.
Example
The company’s financial records revealed years of skullduggery, with hidden accounts and falsified reports designed to deceive investors and regulators.
Fun Fact
The origin of “skullduggery” is somewhat murky, but it’s believed to have emerged in the mid-19th century in American English. Some linguists speculate that it might be related to the Scottish word “sculduddery,” which means indecency or obscenity. The “skull” part of the word likely contributes to its sinister connotation, evoking images of piracy or other nefarious activities.
(adjective) Not expressed directly; indirect or evasive; also describes something angled or slanting rather than straight.
Rather than criticizing his boss outright, Marcus made an oblique comment about “leadership styles in general.”