stratagem Meaning & Definition
What Does Stratagem Mean?
As a noun, stratagem means A tactic or artifice designed to gain the upper hand, especially one involving underhanded dealings or deception. It is also used to mean Specifically, such a tactic or artifice in military operation.
Stratagem at a Glance
| Part of speech | noun |
|---|---|
| Pronunciation | /ˈstɹæt.ə.d͡ʒəm/ |
| Syllables | 3 |
| Synonyms | contrivance, dodge and gambit |
| Plural | stratagems |
Stratagem Definition (Noun)
- A tactic or artifice designed to gain the upper hand, especially one involving underhanded dealings or deception.
- Specifically, such a tactic or artifice in military operation.
- Military deception or artifice.
- Cunning and artifice in general.
- A violent deed.
Synonyms of Stratagem
Stratagem synonyms and antonyms →Word Forms & Grammar
stratagem (countable and uncountable, plural stratagems)
Origin of Stratagem
From Middle English stratageme, from Old French stratageme, from Latin strategema, from Ancient Greek στρατήγημα (stratḗgēma, “the act of a general, a piece of generalship”), from στρατηγέω (stratēgéō, “to be a general, command an army”), from στρατηγός (stratēgós, “a general, the leader or commander of an army”). See strategy.
How to Pronounce Stratagem
You say stratagem as /ˈstɹæt.ə.d͡ʒəm/. It has 3 syllables, with the main stress on the first syllable (stɹæt).
Common Questions About Stratagem
What part of speech is stratagem?
Stratagem is a noun.
What is another word for stratagem?
Words with a similar meaning to stratagem include contrivance, dodge and gambit. See the full list of stratagem synonyms and antonyms.
What is the plural of stratagem?
The plural of stratagem is stratagems.