Definition

Verb (phrasal verb): - To enrich oneself, especially by using one's position or power for personal, often dishonest, financial gain. It implies profiting at the expense of others or one's duties.

Usage

This phrasal verb is used to describe the act of someone, typically in a position of trust or authority, secretly and selfishly accumulating wealth or advantages. It carries a strong negative connotation of corruption, greed, or unethical behavior.

Examples

• The corrupt official was accused of feathering his nest with public funds.
• During his time as treasurer, he found several ways to feather his own nest.
• The investigation revealed that the manager had been feathering her nest for years through fraudulent contracts.

Advanced Usage

• The phrase often implies a gradual, secretive accumulation over time rather than a single act.
• It can be used reflexively ("feather one's own nest") for emphasis on the self-serving nature of the action.

Variants and Related Words

• Nest-feathering (noun, informal): The act or practice of enriching oneself in this manner.
  • The scandal was all about political nest-feathering.

Synonyms

• Line one's pockets: To make money, especially dishonestly.
• Profit illicitly: To gain advantage unlawfully or unethically.

Notes on Meaning

The core meaning is specifically about self-enrichment through the abuse of a privileged position. It is not used for honest profit or general saving. The imagery suggests making one's personal situation ("nest") comfortable and secure ("feathered") with ill-gotten gains.

Verb

1. enrich oneself by taking advantage of one's position
   • The congressmen feathered his nest through his connection with big business