embezzle
verb C2
Plain meaning
to secretly steal money that you were trusted to manage
Exam-register meaning
to misappropriate funds entrusted to one's care, especially in an organisation
In context
generalThe accountant was accused of trying to embezzle company funds.
examWeak financial oversight can allow officials to embezzle public money without immediate detection.
Common collocations
embezzle fundsembezzle moneyembezzle public money
Watch out
Do not use 'embezzle' for every theft. It specifically involves money or property entrusted to someone.
Word family