rigged

Rigged is a term used to describe something that has been secretly arranged or manipulated to produce a predetermined outcome, typically in an unfair or deceitful manner. The manipulation may involve hidden actions, falsified data, or coercive influence, and it can apply to processes governed by rules, procedures, or open competition. The phrase is most commonly used about elections, sports competitions, card or gambling games, auctions, and financial markets, where the aim is to favor a specific party or outcome.

In politics, a rigged election may involve ballot stuffing, tampering with vote counts, or manipulation of turnout. In sports or gaming, it can refer to fixed matches or point shaving, often driven by bribery or collusion. In business, price or bid rigging refers to agreements among competitors to fix prices, limit supply, or control auction outcomes.

Rigging can also refer to the physical arrangement of equipment, separate from deception; for example, a ship’s rigging or stage lighting rigs, where "rigged" describes the setup rather than any manipulation of outcomes.

Etymology traces to the verb "rig," meaning to prepare, fix, or outfit. In modern usage, "rigged" generally connotes deception and unfair advantage, and claims of rigging are typically supported by evidence; unfounded accusations can damage credibility and trust.