bag job

noun

US, informal

1

: a covert and often illegal operation in which an investigator enters into a premises for the purpose of gathering information

That includes "bag jobs" aimed at getting foreign diplomatic codes and some opening of mail to and from U.S. citizens.

—Newsweek, 13 Jan. 1975

2

: an operation or process that is secretly prearranged to guarantee a particular outcome

Back then, the sale to Henry and Co. was deemed a bag job by most everyone in the Boston area … and the new owners of the Sox were met with tremendous skepticism.

—Tony Massarotti, The Boston Herald, 20 Apr. 2008

For some time, Barry and his lawyers have argued that he is the victim of a political bag job to oust him from a job he held for five years.

—Christopher Walker, The Patriot Ledger (Quincy, Massachusetts), 31 Aug. 2005

Word History

Etymology

probably as shortening of black bag job, from the stereotypical black bag carried on such an operation

First Known Use

1971, in the meaning defined at sense 1

The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

1. Expanded definitions
2. Detailed etymologies
3. Advanced search tools
4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now