sucker
Sucker (noun) means a person who is easily fooled or persuaded. Example: “Only a sucker would fall for that scam.”
How to Use Sucker
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishSomeone easily tricked, or a sticking/sucking part, or (informally) a lollipop.
The "gullible person" sense is informal and can sound insulting.
Word Forms
suckered past tense, suckers plural, suckers plural, Suckers plural, suckers singular
Fill the Gap
Can you complete this real example?
Only a _____ would fall for that scam.
Etymology
From Middle English souker, from suck plus the agent suffix -er.
Related Words
Rhymes for sucker
See all rhymes for sucker →Frequently Asked Questions
What does “sucker” mean?
The word “sucker” means a person who is easily fooled or persuaded. In plain terms, someone easily tricked, or a sticking/sucking part, or (informally) a lollipop.
How do you pronounce “sucker”?
“Sucker” is pronounced SUHK-uh (/ˈsʌk.ɚ/ in IPA).
How do you use “sucker” in a sentence?
Here is “sucker” used in a sentence: “Only a sucker would fall for that scam.”
What part of speech is “sucker”?
“Sucker” is a noun.
Where does the word “sucker” come from?
The word “sucker” comes from Middle English. From Middle English souker, from suck plus the agent suffix -er.
Is “sucker” a common word?
“Sucker” is an uncommon word in modern English.
How many meanings does “sucker” have?
“Sucker” has 3 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a person who is easily fooled or persuaded.
What is the difference between calling someone a "sucker" and calling them "gullible"?
Calling someone a sucker is an informal, often dismissive way of saying they are easily fooled or persuaded, while gullible is a more neutral, descriptive adjective for the same trait. Sucker carries a stronger, mocking tone, often used after someone has already been tricked.
Is "sucker" appropriate in formal writing?
No, sucker is informal slang best reserved for casual speech; formal writing should use alternatives like "gullible person" or "easy target" instead.
What does "sucker" mean when talking about animals rather than people?
When applied to animals or objects, a sucker is a round, sucking organ or structure that helps something stick to a surface, such as the suckers on an octopus's tentacles.
Is a "sucker" the same thing as a "lollipop"?
Yes, in casual usage sucker is a common informal word for a lollipop or piece of hard candy meant to be sucked.