Definition

A person who makes secret plans or plots, often for dishonest or selfish reasons.

Example

The schemer devised a clever plan to trick his friends.

Conversation

Did you hear about that new guy in our class?

Yeah, he seems like a real schemer with all those plans he shares.

I know, right? It's like he's always plotting something.

I wonder what his endgame really is!

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Schemer → It is formed from "scheme" (from Greek "schēma", meaning form or plan) and "-er" (meaning a person who). A schemer is a person who devises plans or plots, often with a connotation of cunning or deceit.

Memory Tip

Think of someone who creates a 'plan' ('scheme') — the '-er' indicates that this person is actively involved in making those plans.

Visually Confused Words