scoundrel

noun

scoun·​drel ˈskau̇n-drəl How to pronounce scoundrel (audio)
Synonyms of scoundrel
: 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.
And the surviving cartel scoundrels take the parting shot by kidnapping beloved Carter, putting a hood on him and taking the boy off. Bryan Alexander, USA Today, 3 July 2026 Star Wars Outlaws on Switch 2 drops you into the galaxy’s underworld as Kay Vess, a scoundrel trying to pull off the biggest heist in the Outer Rim. Juhi Wadia, PC Magazine, 26 June 2026 But that just reinforces Samuel Johnson’s adage that patriotism is the last refuge of a scoundrel. Gustavo Arellano, Los Angeles Times, 25 June 2026 Speaking of that last vampire subject, this is also a great episode for Jacob Anderson in the B-plot, as Louis plays the reluctant avenger doing that loveable scoundrel Raglan James’s dirty work in two stand-out action sequences. Rebecca Alter, Vulture, 22 June 2026 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 7 Jul. 2026.

Kids Definition

scoundrel

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

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