Definition

Noun: - A fraudulent scheme or swindle, typically one involving gambling where the game is rigged, or one involving the persuasion of a person to buy worthless or overvalued property.

Usage

This term is used to describe a specific type of deception or confidence trick. It is a formal term for a scam. - The police uncovered a bunko game operating out of the old warehouse, tricking people with fake antique sales. - He lost his savings in what turned out to be a sophisticated bunko game at the illegal casino.

Advanced Usage

• "to run a bunko game": to operate such a fraudulent scheme.
  • The gang was arrested for running a bunko game targeting elderly investors.

Variants and Related Words

• Bunco (noun): A common alternative spelling with the same meaning.
  • He was a victim of a bunco scheme.
• Bunko artist / Bunco artist (noun): A person who perpetrates such swindles.
  • The so-called psychic was revealed to be a skilled bunco artist.

Synonyms

• Swindle: A fraudulent scheme or action.
• Confidence game / Con game: A swindle in which the victim is tricked after gaining their trust.
• Scam: A dishonest scheme; a fraud.

Related Phrases

• To bunco someone (verb, informal): To swindle or cheat someone.
  • The travelers were worried about being buncoed by street vendors.

Noun

1. a swindle in which you cheat at gambling or persuade a person to buy worthless property