scoundrel

noun

scoun·​drel ˈskau̇n-drəl How to pronounce scoundrel (audio)
Synonyms of scoundrelnext
: 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.
Sure, the Oscar-winning makeup helps transform the actor into Cheney, but the voice and petulance are all Bale, whose conjuring of this scoundrel ought to trigger PTSD for anyone who survived the Dubya years. Tim Grierson, Vulture, 7 Mar. 2026 Political leaders who encourage or tolerate such scoundrels should be driven from office. Tom Nichols, The Atlantic, 23 Feb. 2026 Going back to the origins of everyone's favorite scoundrel, Han Solo, may have felt like a no-brainer — especially with Kasdan on board as co-writer — but the film never felt like an essential addition to the rapidly expanding canon. Richard Edwards, Space.com, 17 Dec. 2025 Giannis, a gentleman even in this era of scoundrels, likely wants to do right by the Bucks, too. Dieter Kurtenbach, Mercury News, 3 Dec. 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 17 Mar. 2026.

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

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