Vocabulary Builder — Essay & Answer Writing
embezzlement
noun
/ im-BEZ-uhl-muhnt /
Medium
Meaning
The fraudulent taking of money or property by a person to whom it has been entrusted.
Origin / Etymology
From Anglo-Norman French ''embesiler'' (to steal, make away with), later reinforced by ''bezzle'' (to squander).
Synonyms
misappropriation
defalcation
peculation
pilferage
Antonyms
restitution
reimbursement
honesty
stewardship
Example Sentence
"The audit revealed large-scale embezzlement of welfare funds meant for tribal development schemes."
🎯 UPSC Usage
Relevant to GS Paper 2 on governance and accountability, GS Paper 3 on economic offences, and GS Paper 4 on financial probity. Cite it in discussions of CAG audits, the Prevention of Corruption Act, and leakages in public expenditure that Direct Benefit Transfer seeks to plug.
Relevant Subjects
📰 Related Articles
9 Aug
Current Affairs Today, August 9, 2026
9 Aug
Parliament Passes the MSMED Overhaul: Decriminalisation...
8 Aug
Current Affairs Today, August 8, 2026
✍️ Related Editorials
A new UPSC word every morning
Word of the Day at 7am, plus daily current affairs and free PDFs
Join Channel
