hoodwink etymology

Etymology:

  • Early 17th century: from obsolete Dutch hoedwinken 'to wink the hat', from hoed 'hat' + winken 'to wink'.

Meaning:

  • To deceive or trick someone, especially by means of flattery or deception.

Origin:

The term "hoodwink" originally referred to a specific type of deception where someone would pull down the hood of a hat over someone's eyes to prevent them from seeing what was happening. This tactic was often used by robbers or kidnappers to disorient and control their victims.

Over time, the meaning of "hoodwink" expanded to include any form of deception or trickery. It is often used in a humorous or playful context, but can also convey a sense of disapproval or frustration.

Examples:

  • "The salesman hoodwinked me into buying a lemon."
  • "Don't let him hoodwink you with his sweet talk."
  • "The politicians are hoodwinking the public with their empty promises."

hoodwink relate terms

  • hood

    Etymology The word hood has its origins in the Old English word hōd which meant a c

  • wink

    Etymology The word wink is derived from the Old English word wincian which means to

  • wink

    Etymology The word wink is derived from the Old English word wincian which means to

  • snow

    Etymology The English word snow is derived from Proto Germanic snaiwaz which is belie

  • juggle

    Etymology The word juggle derives from the Old French word jogleor which meant jes

  • baffle

    Etymology Middle English bafel to confuse or bewilder Old French baffler to del

  • bluff

    Etymology The word bluff has several possible origins French bluffer to deceive

  • teach

    Etymology Definition The study of the origin development and meaning of words Origin

  • betray

    Etymology The word betray comes from the Old French word betreier which in turn come

  • chisel

    Etymology The word chisel is derived from the Late Latin word cisellus which is the

  • pull

    Etymology Middle English pullen from Old English pullan ultimately from Latin pell

  • wool