crook
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /krʊk/
KK: /krʊk/
adjective
Definition
Not honest or trustworthy; dishonest.
Example
The crook businessman was caught cheating his clients.
Comparatives & Superlatives
Comparative: crookeder
Superlative: crookedest
Conversation
Did you see that new restaurant on Main Street?
Yeah, I heard the food is a bit crook though.
That's disappointing; I was looking forward to trying it.
Maybe we should stick to our usual place instead.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
dishonest
crooked
faulty
Antonyms
honest
upright
correct
noun
Definition
A person who engages in dishonest or illegal activities, often for personal gain.
Example
The police arrested the crook after a long investigation.
Conversation
Did you hear about that crook who stole from the local store?
Yeah, it's crazy how some people think they can get away with that.
I can't believe there are still so many crooks out there.
verb
Definition
To bend something into a curved shape.
Example
He decided to crook the wire to fit it into the frame.
Tense Forms
Past: crooked
Past Participle: crooked
Conversation
Do you think I should crook the frame a bit for the picture?
Yeah, it might look better that way!
I want it to fit nicely on the wall without looking weird.
Root Explanation
Crook originates from Old English 'crōc', meaning a hook or bend. The word refers to something that is bent or curved, often used to describe a hook or a person who is dishonest.
Memory Tip
Think of a 'hook' or 'bend' — that's why 'crook' can mean something that is bent or a person who is not straight in their actions.
Visually Confused Words
acrook
rook
cook
uncrook
chorook
scroo
rooky
cronk