snollygoster

Definition

A shrewd, unprincipled person, especially a politician who acts out of self-interest and is willing to use dishonest tactics. The term is primarily used to describe someone who is wily and cunning rather than straightforward.

Example Usage

The senator revealed himself to be a snollygoster when he switched his vote for campaign donations.

Origin

Origin uncertain; possibly from German or Yiddish roots, first appearing in American English in the 1840s.

Fun Fact

This delightfully obscure term experienced a resurgence in popularity during the 2016 U.S. election.

Source: Definition backfill (hailey)

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