schemer

American  

[skee-mer] / ˈski mər /

noun

1. someone who devises plans or plots, especially underhanded ones.

   She is one of the memorable characters in literature, a born schemer and social climber unencumbered by any need to tell the truth.

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Etymology

Origin of schemer

scheme ( def. ) + -er ¹

Example Sentences

Duer was also an inveterate speculator and get-rich-quick schemer: “king of the alley,” as Thomas Jefferson derisively referred External link to Wall Street.

From Barron's • Mar. 1, 2026

When the Seattle Seahawks moved on from longtime coach Pete Carroll two years ago, it could’ve been their chance to follow the modern wisdom of building a franchise around a young offensive-minded schemer.

From The Wall Street Journal • Feb. 5, 2026

There may be no better time for a schemer like Ashur to be resurrected from the underworld.

From Salon • Dec. 7, 2025

The archetypal spin doctor, his reputation as a behind-the scenes fixer, schemer and schmoozer earned him the nickname, "the Prince of Darkness".

From BBC • Sep. 11, 2025

Miraculously, Oskar Schindler, this complex man of many contradictions—Nazi opportunist, schemer, courageous maverick, rescuer, hero—had saved nearly 1,200 Jews from almost certain death.

From "The Boy on the Wooden Box" by Leon Leyson

Related Words

• rascal
• rogue