Pronunciation: [kˈə͡ʊzənd] (IPA) 
Cozened is a verb meaning to deceive, cheat or trick. It is spelled with a "z" in the middle because the "z" sound corresponds to the /z/ phoneme in the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA). Additionally, the "o" in the word is pronounced with a short vowel sound /ɑ/ as in the word "got," while the "e" at the end of the word is silent. So, the correct pronunciation of cozened in IPA transcription would be /ˈkʌzənd/.
Cozened is the past tense of the verb "cozen," which refers to a deceptive or fraudulent act aimed at tricking, deceiving, or swindling someone. The term originates from Middle English, derived from the Old French word "cosin" meaning "cousin" or "relative." However, its contemporary meaning shifted over time to encompass the act of defrauding or cheating someone, suggesting a resemblance between the deceiver and their victims, as if they were close relatives.
When someone is cozened, they are usually manipulated or deceived using cunning tactics or false pretenses. This may involve the intentional creation of an illusion, a fraudulent scheme, or the artful manipulation of facts and information. The cozened individual is lured into believing false promises, parting with valuable possessions, or agreeing to an unfair deal through cunning persuasion.
Being cozened often results in financial loss, but it can extend beyond monetary matters to include emotional or psychological harm. The act of cozening is typically associated with dishonesty, duplicity, and a lack of moral integrity. It involves exploiting the trust or vulnerability of others for personal gain or advantage.
Overall, to be cozened is to be fooled, tricked, or deceived through cunning means, leading to some form of loss or disadvantage for the victim.
The word "cozened" has its origins in the Middle English term "cosyn", which means "cousin" in modern English. However, in Middle English, "cosyn" had a broader meaning, referring to any close relation or friend. Over time, the term "cosyn" came to be associated with deceitful behavior, trickery, and fraud, eventually evolving into the word "cozened". The shift in meaning may be attributed to the idea of a close relation or friend being someone who is familiar and trustworthy, making dishonest actions in this context particularly deceptive.
