scandal
1scan·dal
noun \ˈskan-dəl\Definition of SCANDAL
1
a : discredit brought upon religion by unseemly conduct in a religious person b : conduct that causes or encourages a lapse of faith or of religious obedience in another
2
: loss of or damage to reputation caused by actual or apparent violation of morality or propriety : disgrace
3
a : a circumstance or action that offends propriety or established moral conceptions or disgraces those associated with it b : a person whose conduct offends propriety or morality <a scandal to the profession>
4
: malicious or defamatory gossip
5
: indignation, chagrin, or bewilderment brought about by a flagrant violation of morality, propriety, or religious opinion
Examples of SCANDAL
- There was a major scandal involving the mayor's ties with the Mob.
- Government officials were caught in an embezzlement scandal.
- Her behavior caused a scandal at school.
- There was never a hint of scandal during her time in office.
- The gossip magazine is filled with rumors and scandal.
- The high price of gas these days is a scandal.
- It's a scandal that this city doesn't have a movie theater.
Origin of SCANDAL
Middle English, from Late Latin scandalum stumbling block, offense, from Greek skandalon trap, stumbling block, offense; akin to Latin scandere to climb
First Known Use: 13th century
Related to SCANDAL
Learn More About SCANDAL
Browse
Next Word in the Dictionary: scandalise
Previous Word in the Dictionary: Scandahoovian
All Words Near: scandal
Previous Word in the Dictionary: Scandahoovian
All Words Near: scandal
Seen & Heard 
What made you want to look up scandal? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).

See







