to suck in

Dictionary of American Words And Phrases by John Russell Bartlett.

To take in; to cheat; to deceive. A figurative expression, probably drawn from a sponge, which sucks up water. To be sucked in, is to be 'sponged' out of one's money, or to be cheated in a bargain. It is a low expression, though often heard, and is understood by all.


"I ain't bound to drive nobody in the middle of the night," said the driver; "so you don't try to suck me in there."--Mrs. Clavers's Forest Life, Vol. I. p. 109.

Who was the first unfortunate speculator? Jonah. Ah! why? Because he got sucked in!--Newspaper.

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