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tampering

American  
[tam-per-ing] / ˈtæm pər ɪŋ /

noun

  1. the act or process of changing, damaging, or interfering with something, especially with intent to falsify, cheat, or defraud.

    Data transmitted over an SSL connection cannot be forged without the two parties becoming immediately aware of the tampering.

    In a clear case of tampering, players were caught using sandpaper to alter the ball.

  2. the act or process of dealing secretively, improperly, or underhandedly with someone.

    I had a duty to report the witness tampering to the judge.


Etymology

Origin of tampering

tamper 1 ( def. ) + -ing 1 ( def. )

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:

Faced with that evidence, Fraser pleaded no contest to the tampering charge and was sentenced to one year in the Baker County Jail.

From Slate Aug. 11, 2026

Stephen Cloobeck — a one-time California gubernatorial candidate ensconced in Democratic political circles — pleaded not guilty to witness tampering charges Friday related to a burglary case against his former paramour, OnlyFans model Adva Lavie.

From Los Angeles Times Aug. 7, 2026

Major League Soccer says it is investigating allegations of tampering by Inter Miami after the club signed Brazil midfielder Casemiro.

From BBC Jul. 22, 2026

Johnson, he added, gets blamed for tampering with Social Security, with many people erroneously believing the president dipped into the program’s coffers.

From MarketWatch May 2, 2026

He examined his shoe carefully, searching for signs of tampering.

From "Jeremy Thatcher, Dragon Hatcher" by Bruce Coville

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