bunco

noun

ˈbəŋ-(ˌ)kō How to pronounce bunco (audio)
variants or bunko
Definition of bunconext
as in scam
an instance of the use of dishonest methods to acquire something of value they were experts at that bunco, having fleeced wide-eyed tourists for years

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of bunco Similar games that bring friends together include bunco, poker, bridge, and rummikub. — Heather Bien, Southern Living, 29 Aug. 2026 The event includes bunco, lunch and a silent auction. — Linda McIntosh, San Diego Union-Tribune, 5 Mar. 2026 The fact that Bosworth was the brains behind this whole caper shows you just how short of brains the whole Healey bunco operation is. — Howie Carr, Boston Herald, 19 Oct. 2025
Recent Examples of Synonyms for bunco
  1. scam
  2. con
Noun
  • Any outreach requesting an application fee or payment to be considered for the list is a scam.
    — Kelli Grant, CFP®,Riley de León, CNBC, 8 Oct. 2026
  • According to Harris' office, Harris and Steckloff worked together on the bipartisan legislation after hearing increasing concerns about gift card scams affecting consumers across Michigan.
    — Karma Sabbah, CBS News, 7 Oct. 2026
Definition of scam
Noun
  • But there are also cons to buying a condo including sky-high HOA and parking fees, and emergency assessments, which could cost thousands of dollars.
    — Kevinisha Walker, Los Angeles Times, 5 Oct. 2026
  • Vicki and Tamra are meeting up to get their Prenuvo scans, and no, this is definitely not spon-con.
    — Louis Peitzman, Vulture, 2 Oct. 2026
Definition of con

Browse Nearby Words

bunching
bunco
buncos
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Cite this Entry

“Bunco.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/bunco. Accessed 9 Oct. 2026.

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