Scoundrel

Pronunciation: /ˈskaʊndrəl/

Definitions of scoundrel

noun a person who is dishonest, unprincipled, or morally corrupt

Example Sentences

A1 The scoundrel stole the old lady's purse.

A2 The village was wary of the scoundrel who had recently moved in.

B1 The detective was determined to catch the notorious scoundrel responsible for the bank heist.

B2 The cunning scoundrel had managed to deceive even the most experienced con artists.

C1 The mastermind behind the elaborate Ponzi scheme was revealed to be a wealthy scoundrel.

C2 The ruthless scoundrel had a reputation for using any means necessary to achieve his goals.

Examples of scoundrel in a Sentence

formal The judge referred to the defendant as a scoundrel during the trial.

informal I can't believe that scoundrel stole my wallet!

slang That scoundrel is always causing trouble.

figurative His actions painted him as a scoundrel in the eyes of the public.

Grammatical Forms of scoundrel

• plural: scoundrels
• comparative: more scoundrelly
• superlative: most scoundrelly
• present tense: scoundrels
• future tense: will scoundrel
• perfect tense: have scoundreled
• continuous tense: is scoundreling
• singular: scoundrel
• positive degree: scoundrel
• infinitive: to scoundrel
• gerund: scoundreling
• participle: scoundreled

Origin and Evolution of scoundrel

First Known Use: 1400 year

Language of Origin: Middle English

Story behind the word: The word 'scoundrel' originated from the Middle English word 'skowndrell' which was derived from the Old French word 'escorneur' meaning 'one who mocks or scoffs'.

Evolution of the word: Over time, the word 'scoundrel' evolved to refer to a dishonest or unscrupulous person, with a negative connotation attached to it.