Bezzle
/ˈbɛz.əl/noun
A term, especially in economics, for the amount of value hidden or stolen during a period before the theft is discovered.
Did you know?The word was popularized by economist John Kenneth Galbraith, who used it to describe the hidden, temporary wealth created by embezzlement before anyone notices the loss.
Etymological Timeline
20th Century
English
bezzle
“An invented or specialized term for concealed ill-gotten gain or the temporary appearance of wealth before fraud is exposed.”
1960s
English
bezzle
“Used by John Kenneth Galbraith in economic writing to name the hidden value created by embezzlement.”
Middle English
English
embezzle
“To steal or misappropriate money entrusted to one's care.”
Old French
French
embesiller
“To squander or waste away; source uncertain in older lexicography and not directly the same as modern 'bezzle'.”
Modern English
English
bezzle
“A technical and literary term for concealed theft-related wealth, especially before discovery.”