Definition

A person who steals or misuses funds or property that has been entrusted to them.

Example

The accountant was caught being a peculator after he was found to have embezzled money from the company.

Conversation

Did you hear about that company scandal?

Yeah, they caught a peculator in the finance department!

It's crazy how some people can be so dishonest.

I know, right? It's a huge breach of trust.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Peculator → It is formed from "peculatus" (meaning to embezzle or misappropriate) which is derived from "peculum" (meaning property or money) and the suffix "-or" (indicating a person who performs an action). The word "peculator" refers to a person who embezzles or misappropriates funds or property.

Memory Tip

Think of someone who misappropriates 'property' ('peculum') — that's why a 'peculator' is someone who embezzles.

Visually Confused Words