scoundrel

IPA

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Dictionary definition of scoundrel

A person who behaves in a dishonest or immoral way, often engaging in deceitful or unscrupulous actions for their own personal gain.
"The scoundrel was caught red-handed and brought to justice."

Detailed meaning of scoundrel

A scoundrel is commonly regarded as a despicable or contemptible individual, lacking in integrity or principles, and often causing harm or trouble to others through their actions. The term "scoundrel" can be used to describe a range of different types of people, from con artists and fraudsters to politicians and business executives who engage in corrupt practices. Regardless of the specific context, a scoundrel is generally someone who is not trusted or respected by others due to their unethical behavior and lack of moral character.

Example sentences containing scoundrel

1. The town considered him a scoundrel for swindling the elderly.
2. The cunning scoundrel escaped justice once again.
3. She exposed the scoundrel's fraudulent business practices.
4. The scoundrel's deceitful schemes left a trail of victims.
5. He portrayed the scoundrel in the play with convincing charisma.
6. The scoundrel's reputation as a con artist was well-deserved.

History and etymology of scoundrel

The noun 'scoundrel' has its origins in the Old English word 'scaundor,' which meant 'disgrace' or 'shame.' Over time, it evolved into the Middle English term 'skowndrel' and eventually became 'scoundrel' in modern English. Etymologically, 'scoundrel' conveys the idea of someone who brings disgrace or shame through their actions. It describes a person who behaves in a dishonest or immoral way, often engaging in deceitful or unscrupulous actions for their own personal gain. The word's etymology underscores the negative moral judgment associated with such individuals, emphasizing their lack of integrity and the shame their actions bring upon themselves and others.

Quiz: Find the meaning of scoundrel

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Further usage examples of scoundrel

1. They suspected the scoundrel of embezzling company funds.
2. The scoundrel's manipulation of others was masterful.
3. The charming scoundrel always managed to elude the law.
4. The scoundrel's greed knew no bounds.
5. The scoundrel's betrayal of trust was heartbreaking.
6. The scoundrel's downfall came when his lies unraveled.
7. The town rallied to expose the scoundrel's corruption.
8. The scoundrel's influence over others was unsettling.
9. They pursued the scoundrel relentlessly, seeking justice.
10. The scoundrel's silver tongue could deceive anyone.
11. She vowed to bring the scoundrel to justice.
12. The scoundrel's double-crossing ways caught up with him.
13. The scoundrel's actions left a stain on his family's name.
14. The scoundrel's escape plan was foiled by vigilant authorities.
15. The scoundrel cheated his way to the top of the company.
16. Everyone knew that he was a scoundrel, but they still couldn't prove it.
17. She had the misfortune of marrying a scoundrel who treated her badly.
18. The town was terrorized by a notorious scoundrel who robbed from the rich and kept the spoils for himself.
19. He was labeled a scoundrel for embezzling money from his clients.
20. It's hard to believe that someone so charming could be such a scoundrel.
21. The book's protagonist is a scoundrel who learns the error of his ways.
22. The scoundrel was known for his smooth talking and persuasive ways.
23. The community rallied together to catch the scoundrel who was responsible for the recent string of burglaries.
24. The scoundrel's actions were so egregious that they resulted in his immediate dismissal from the company.
25. She couldn't help but feel a sense of satisfaction when the scoundrel finally got what he deserved.