bribe — money or gifts given to someone in a position of power to influence their decisions or behavior illegally
Part of speech: NOUN
Definition: money or gifts given to someone in a position of power to influence their decisions or behavior illegally
Pronunciation (IPA): /braɪb/
Example Sentences
- The traffic cop refused my chocolate bar bribe and still gave me a speeding ticket.
- She tried to bribe her way into the exclusive restaurant with homemade cookies.
- The investigation revealed a complex network of bribes involving several government officials.
bribe
NOUN[/braɪb/]
money or gifts given to someone in a position of power to influence their decisions or behavior illegally
The shady contractor slipped a thick envelope of cash to bribe the inspector.
The tribe's scribe weighs the bribe.
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🎤Pronunciation
🌳Etymology
Origin
The word derives from Old French 'briber', meaning 'to beg' or 'to live as a vagrant'. Originally, it referred specifically to begging for bread crumbs, but gradually evolved to mean the improper giving and receiving of payment or favors, acquiring its modern sense of corruption.
Breakdown
Old French 'briber' (to beg, to live as a vagrant) + -e (verb ending). The semantic shift from begging for sustenance to illicit payment reflects the historical association between desperation and moral compromise.
🎵Rhyme
🔗Collocations
📝Examples
“The traffic cop refused my chocolate bar bribe and still gave me a speeding ticket.”
“She tried to bribe her way into the exclusive restaurant with homemade cookies.”
“The investigation revealed a complex network of bribes involving several government officials.”
“Anti-corruption laws have made it easier to prosecute those who offer bribes.”
📚Related Words
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