What is the meaning of "swindle"?

The term "swindle" refers specifically to the act of deceiving someone with the intent to gain money or property unlawfully. This involves trickery or fraud, where one person manipulates another into parting with their assets under false pretenses. For example, a swindle might occur in a scenario where an individual promises a nonexistent investment opportunity to persuade someone to give them money. The essence of the word captures not just the act of cheating, but the underlying deceit that characterizes such behavior. This understanding is essential in recognizing the various contexts in which the term can be applied, particularly in discussions about fraud and financial misconduct.