What does schemed mean?
The verb schemed refers to the act of devising or planning something, often in a clever or deceitful way. It is the past tense of scheme, and is commonly used to describe situations where someone has planned or plotted something, often with the intention of achieving a particular goal or outcome. Schemed can have a negative connotation, implying that the plan is deceitful or manipulative. For example, someone might scheme to get out of doing chores or to get ahead in their career. The word is often used in a disapproving sense, suggesting that the person has been cunning or underhanded in their planning.
verbPast tense of scheme, meaning to devise or plan something, often in a clever or deceitful way.
- to plan or devise something, especially in a clever or deceitful way
- to have a clever or deceitful plan
"She schemed to get out of her chores by pretending to be sick."
"The politician schemed to get re-elected by any means necessary."
"The kids schemed to sneak into the movie theater without paying."
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of schemed
The word schemed is derived from the verb scheme, which has its roots in the Old French word 'esqueme', meaning 'a trick or a device'. This Old French word is thought to have been derived from the Latin 'schemata', which was itself borrowed from the Greek 'σχῆμα' (skhēma), meaning 'a form or a figure'. The verb scheme has been used in English since the 16th century, and its past tense schemed has been in use since at least the 17th century.
How schemed is actually used
Often used in a negative or disapproving sense, implying deceit or manipulation.