Stratagem
/ˈstræt.ə.dʒəm/noun
A cleverly planned trick or scheme used to gain an advantage.
Did you know?The word entered English through French from Greek stratēgēma, a military “general’s deed,” tying strategy to the ancient art of command and deception.
Etymological Timeline
Ancient Greek
Greek
stratēgēma
“a military exploit or act of generalship”
Late Greek
Greek
stratēgos
“a general, military commander”
Latin
Latin
strategema
“a military trick or device”
14th Century
Middle French
stratageme
“a military trick, crafty device”
Late 16th Century
English
stratagem
“a cunning plan or trick used to defeat an opponent”
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