“Crook” means a dishonest person, especially someone who cheats, lies, or steals. It can also be used to describe something that is bent or curved, but in everyday English, people usually mean a criminal or a shady person.
People often use “crook” in informal speech to talk about someone they do not trust. For example, they might say a thief is a crook, or call a businessperson a crook if they think that person is acting unfairly or illegally.
Meaning & Usage
In daily English, “crook” is a negative word for a person who is not honest. It is common in news, conversations, and complaints when someone wants to strongly criticize bad behavior.
Examples
He was sent to prison because he is a crook.
Don’t trust that salesman — he’s a crook.
The police caught the crook after the robbery.
Is “crook” a formal word?
No, it is usually informal. People use it in everyday speech, not in formal writing.
Can “crook” mean bent?
Yes, it can also mean curved or bent, like a crook in a stick or a crook in someone’s finger.
Is “crook” always about crime?
Most of the time, yes. It usually refers to someone dishonest or criminal.
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