cozen

[ kuhz-uhn ]

verb (used with or without object)

1. to cheat, deceive, or trick.

cozen

/ ˈkʌzən /

verb

1. to cheat or trick (someone)

Derived Forms

• ˈcozener, noun
• ˈcozenage, noun

Other Words From

• cozen·er noun
• cozen·ing·ly adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of cozen¹

1565–75; perhaps < Old North French coçonner to resell, verbal derivative of coçon retailer (< Latin coctiōnem, accusative of coctiō, cōciō dealer), influenced by Middle French cousin dupe, literally, cousin

Word History and Origins

Origin of cozen¹

C16: cant term perhaps related to cousin

Example Sentences

He would fain cozen and betray us, like the Brother Richard, who at this very time is riding with our enemies.

From Project Gutenberg

After office home to dinner, where come in my cozen Snow by chance, and I had a very good capon to dinner.

From Project Gutenberg

Which being done I took leave and supped at my father's, where was my cozen Beck come lately out of the country.

From Project Gutenberg

Early to my cozen Thomas Trice to discourse about our affairs, and he did make demand of the L200 and the interest thereof.

From Project Gutenberg

Thence vexed home, and there by appointment comes my cozen Roger Pepys and Mrs. Turner, and dined with me, and very merry we were.

From Project Gutenberg