Pronunciation: [kˈə͡ʊznɪŋ] (IPA) 
Cozening is spelled with a ‘z’ instead of an ‘s’, which may seem odd to some. However, this is due to the word’s origin from the Middle English word ‘cozen’, which was originally spelled with a ‘z’. The IPA phonetic transcription of this word is /ˈkʌzənɪŋ/. The ‘o’ is pronounced like the ‘u’ in ‘hut’, and the ‘e’ is pronounced like the ‘i’ in ‘bit’. The stress is on the first syllable.
Cozening is a verb that refers to the act of deceiving or tricking someone in order to gain an unfair advantage or personal benefit. It involves using cunning or manipulation to deceive others for one's own ends. Cozening often involves the misrepresentation of facts, the manipulation of others' perceptions, or the artful use of persuasion to defraud or fool individuals.
The term cozening is closely related to the concept of cheating or swindling, but it typically implies a more subtle and crafty approach. It suggests a level of cleverness and calculated deception, as those who engage in cozening are often able to win over their victims through charm or smooth talk, making it harder for the victims to realize they are being deceived.
Cozening can occur in various contexts, such as in personal relationships, business transactions, or even in political or legal arenas. It can involve the use of false promises, exaggerated claims, or clever maneuvers to gain an advantage over others. The aim of cozening is typically to exploit the trust or vulnerability of another person, thereby achieving personal gain or benefit at their expense.
It is important to be vigilant and cautious when dealing with individuals who may resort to cozening, as their schemes can be sophisticated and difficult to detect. Developing strong critical thinking and analytical skills can help to identify potential cozeners and protect oneself from falling victim to their deceitful tactics.
The word "cozening" originated from the Middle English term "cosyn", which means "fraudulent dealing" or "cheating". This Middle English term can be traced back to the Old French word "cosoner", meaning "to deceive" or "to cheat". The Old French term ultimately finds its roots in the Late Latin word "consuere", which means "to cheat" or "to defraud". The etymology of "cozening" suggests a long history of deceitful practices and trickery.
