cozen

American  

[kuhz-uhn] / ˈkʌz ən /

verb (used with or without object)

1. to cheat, deceive, or trick.

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cozen British  

/ ˈkʌzən /

verb

1. to cheat or trick (someone)

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Other Word Forms

• cozenage noun
• cozener noun
• cozeningly adverb

Etymology

Origin of cozen

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

Example Sentences

The point, however, is not to entertain the driver/employee but to cozen the owner.

From The Wall Street Journal

Jay’s family is far from unique, and a version of his cozening, calculating mother can be found in many homes, but I also found a little bit of myself here.

From New York Times

The knowledge and guile of their managers enabled them to corrupt and cozen all too many of the region’s elected public officials and to thwart the legitimate aspirations of the people.”

From The Guardian

“A few, mayhaps. Most are simply cautious. Some think to cozen him. He is not a man easily cozened, however.”

From Literature

And the beauty of the pearl, winking and glimmering in the light of the little candle, cozened his brain with its beauty.

From Literature