Dictionary.com
Thesaurus.com
Showing results for double-dealing. Search instead for true-dealing.
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

His flamboyant personality struck a chord with the Italian electorate, which continued to back him despite allegations of corruption and double-dealing.

From BBC Jun. 12, 2023

“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

“No, you double-dealing, four-flushing old cootie,” she replied.

From "A Long Way from Chicago" by Richard Peck

Vocabulary.com logo
by dictionary.com

Dictionary.com's Learning Companion

Go beyond just looking up words.
Remember them forever with VocabTrainer.

Start training