scoundrel

noun

scoun·​drel ˈskau̇n-drəl How to pronounce scoundrel (audio)
: a disreputable person : rascal
scoundrel adjective
scoundrelly adjective

Examples of scoundrel in a Sentence

some scoundrel stole my wallet
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
This painting becomes the center of a scheme to weaken Cosimo’s reputation, and Benvenuto Cellini, sculptor, goldsmith and all-around scoundrel, is hired to steal it — a choice that leads to some of the most hilarious high jinks in the book. Chelsea Leu, New York Times, 12 Apr. 2025 Yet too many Democrats are reacting as though Musk himself is the scoundrel. Stephen Moore, Boston Herald, 3 Apr. 2025 The first episode was a huge departure for the series, starring Bradley Cooper as a Civil War-era scoundrel, ancestor to the Gemstones, and the main cast wasn’t there at all. Paul Tassi, Forbes, 16 Mar. 2025 One thing was certain: Per its title, it was set in the demimonde of the galaxy far, far away, among its scoundrels, and smugglers, and bounty hunters and assorted other criminals. Christian Blauvelt, IndieWire, 12 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for scoundrel

Word History

Etymology

origin unknown

First Known Use

1589, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of scoundrel was in 1589

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Scoundrel.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/scoundrel. Accessed 24 Apr. 2025.

Kids Definition

scoundrel

noun
scoun·​drel ˈskau̇n-drəl How to pronounce scoundrel (audio)
: a mean or wicked person : villain
scoundrelly adjective

More from Merriam-Webster on scoundrel

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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