Definition

Verb (phrasal verb) To dishonestly make a lot of money for oneself, typically by abusing one's position of power or trust. It implies gaining wealth through corrupt, unethical, or illegal means.

Usage

This phrasal verb is used to describe the act of someone, often in a position of authority, secretly and improperly enriching themselves. It carries a strong negative connotation of greed and corruption.

Examples

• The investigation revealed that the corrupt officials had been lining their pockets with public funds for years.
• He used his role as a procurement manager to line his pockets by taking bribes from suppliers.
• The charity's director was accused of lining her own pockets instead of using donations to help people.

Advanced Usage

• The phrase can be used with different pronouns to specify who is profiting (e.g., line pockets, line pockets, line pockets).
• It is often used in passive constructions to describe a system or situation: "The contract was designed so that the company's executives could line their pockets."

Variants and Related Words

• Line someone else's pockets: To cause someone else to profit dishonestly. "The fraudulent scheme was set up to line the pockets of the political allies."
• Profiteer (verb/noun): To make or a person who makes an unfair profit, especially in times of scarcity.
• Embezzle (verb): To steal or misappropriate (money placed in one's trust or belonging to the organization one works for).

Synonyms

• Enrich oneself (dishonestly)
• Profit illicitly
• Make a killing (can be neutral or negative depending on context)
• Feather one's nest

Related Idioms

• Feather one's (own) nest: To enrich oneself, especially by taking advantage of one's position. This is a very close synonym.
• On the take: Accepting bribes or being involved in corruption.
• Grease someone's palm: To bribe someone.

Verb

1. make a lot of money