cozen

[kuhz-uhn]

verb (used with or without object)

1. to cheat, deceive, or trick.

cozen

/ ˈkʌzən /

verb

1. to cheat or trick (someone)

Other Word Forms

• cozener noun
• cozenage noun
• cozeningly 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

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

Read more on 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.

Read more on 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.”

Read more on The Guardian

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

Read more on Literature

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

Read more on Literature