Definition

1. Verb:
   • To cheat by avoiding payment of a gambling debt: The primary meaning of "welch" is to fail to pay a debt, especially a bet or wager, by running away or refusing to honor the agreement.
   • To fail to fulfill an obligation or promise: More broadly, it can mean to go back on one's word or to not carry out a promised action.

Usage

• The verb "welch" is typically used in informal contexts and is often considered offensive, as it originates from a negative ethnic stereotype. It is commonly followed by the preposition "on."
• It is conjugated as a regular verb (welch, welched, welching).

Examples

• Verb:

Advanced Usage

• "to welch on a deal": to fail to honor the terms of a business agreement or arrangement.
• "to welch on a promise": to break a promise.

Variants and Related Words

• Welcher (noun): A person who welches.

Synonyms

• Default (on): To fail to fulfill an obligation, especially a financial one.
• Renegue (on): To go back on a promise, agreement, or commitment.
• Bilk: To cheat or defraud someone out of money or possessions.

Phrasal Verbs / Common Constructions

• Welch on (someone/something): This is the standard construction for this verb.

Important Note on Usage

• The term "welch" is etymologically linked to a derogatory stereotype about Welsh people. Due to its offensive origins, many modern style guides recommend avoiding it. Synonyms like "renege" or "default" are often preferred in formal and sensitive contexts.

Verb

1. cheat by avoiding payment of a gambling debt