scheming

adjective

schem·​ing ˈskē-miŋ How to pronounce scheming (audio)
: given to forming schemes
especially : devious

Examples of scheming in a Sentence

the novel is about an elderly man and his scheming son who is impatient to inherit the family fortune
Recent Examples on the Web Dan Aykroyd and Eddie Murphy get revenge on two scheming executives. Aj Willingham, CNN, 23 Dec. 2022 Four young soccer superfans team up to help their idols regain their abilities after a scheming evil scientist steals their talent. Rodney Ho, ajc, 6 Nov. 2022 Many viewed him as being manipulated by his scheming mother, dowager Queen Frederica. Demetris Nellas, BostonGlobe.com, 10 Jan. 2023 This faux-fur pull-through scarf is warm, fuzzy, and tres chic for all your scheming needs. Sara Netzley, EW.com, 8 Dec. 2022 Breest's lawyers paint Haggis as a scheming narcissist who repeatedly used his cinematic chops and Hollywood status to prey on women who came into his professional orbit. Jennifer Peltz, ajc, 10 Nov. 2022 Given her pedigree as a respected dramatic actress, Evan Rachel Wood never thought that depicting a scheming, villainous Madonna would land on her resume. Melissa Ruggieri, USA TODAY, 4 Nov. 2022

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'scheming.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

1741, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of scheming was in 1741

Dictionary Entries Near scheming

Cite this Entry

“Scheming.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/scheming. Accessed 19 Mar. 2024.

Kids Definition

scheming

adjective
schem·​ing
ˈskē-miŋ
: being in the habit of forming schemes
especially : sneaky, deceptive

More from Merriam-Webster on scheming

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