Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

on-the-fiddle

idiom
/ˈɒn ðə ˈfɪd(ə)l/
Definition
Engaging in deceitful or dishonest practices, often to obtain money or benefits illegally.
Examples
  • They were caught on-the-fiddle after the auditors found discrepancies in the financial records.
  • His lifestyle raised suspicions that he was living on-the-fiddle.
Meaning
The phrase ‘on-the-fiddle’ refers to someone who is involved in trickery, especially in financial contexts. It is commonly used to describe activities that are unethical or involve fraud.
Synonyms
  • fraudulent
  • deceitful
  • dishonest
  • crooked