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Synonyms

double-dealing

American  
[duhb-uhl-dee-ling] / ˈdʌb əlˈdi lɪŋ /

noun

  1. duplicity; treachery; deception.


adjective

  1. using duplicity; treacherous.

double-dealing British  

noun

    1. action characterized by treachery or deceit

    2. ( as modifier )

      double-dealing treachery

"Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged" 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

Other Word Forms

Etymology

Origin of double-dealing

First recorded in 1520–30

Vocabulary lists containing double-dealing

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

See Examples For:

Not a bad legacy, considering George Downing is summarized by his biographer thus: “Liar, blackmailer, seducer and thief, this double-dealing shapeshifter would betray both friends and principles without a moment’s misgiving.”

From The Wall Street Journal Mar. 11, 2026

When you’re spending money that’s not your own but that one day might be your inheritance, it sometimes feels like double-dealing, psychologically.

From Barron's Nov. 9, 2025

Brad Gordon says Latchford was double-dealing right until his death.

From BBC May 12, 2022

“This type of double-dealing directly contributes to rising M.T.A. fares for the average, hardworking commuter,” said William F. Sweeney Jr., head of the F.B.I.’s New York office.

From New York Times Dec. 3, 2020

‘How could you suggest such double-dealing? For shame, Rabscuttle! We will guard the house.’

From "Watership Down: A Novel" by Richard Adams

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