Scoundrel is a noun that refers to a person who behaves dishonorably, deceitfully, or unethically. It is often used to describe someone involved in unscrupulous or criminal activities, with a connotation of moral corruption or villainy. While typically negative, “scoundrel” can also be used in a lighthearted or teasing way to describe someone mischievous. Historically, the term evokes images of rogues, cheats, or individuals who act with selfish or malicious intent.
Sentences Using “Scoundrel”:
- The scoundrel tricked the villagers into giving him money for a fake treasure map.
- That scoundrel stole my wallet and disappeared into the crowded market.
- Known as a scoundrel, he always found ways to manipulate others for his own gain.
- The villain in the story was a scoundrel who betrayed his closest allies for power.
- Despite being a scoundrel, his charm made him difficult to dislike entirely.
- The pirate captain was a notorious scoundrel, feared across the seven seas.
- “You scoundrel!” she exclaimed after discovering his plan to sabotage her work.
- The politician was exposed as a scoundrel, caught embezzling funds meant for public welfare.
- The scoundrel smirked as he made off with the stolen jewels, leaving no trace behind.
- Even as a scoundrel, he had a code of honor, never harming women or children.
Synonyms for “scoundrel”:
- Villain
- Rogue
- Knave
- Rascal
- Cheat
- Swindler
- Trickster
- Miscreant
- Fraudster
- Blackguard
Antonyms for “scoundrel”:
- Hero
- Gentleman
- Altruist
- Benefactor
- Nobleman
- Protector
- Saint
- Law-abider
- Virtuous person
- Philanthropist
Related Words:
- Deceiver
- Charlatan
- Crook
- Bandit
- Outlaw
- Betrayer
- Traitor
- Dishonest person
- Sinner
- Schemer
Idiomatic Expressions:
- “A cunning scoundrel” – A deceitful person who uses cleverness to achieve their goals, e.g., “The cunning scoundrel escaped justice once again.”
- “Dirty scoundrel” – A particularly despicable or immoral person, e.g., “You dirty scoundrel! How dare you betray my trust?”
- “Up to scoundrelly tricks” – Acting dishonestly or mischievously, e.g., “He’s up to his scoundrelly tricks, trying to con people out of their money.”
- “Heartless scoundrel” – Someone who acts cruelly or without empathy, e.g., “That heartless scoundrel took advantage of the widow’s grief to steal her inheritance.”
- “Scoundrel with a heart of gold” – A morally questionable person who ultimately has good intentions, e.g., “He’s a scoundrel with a heart of gold, always getting into trouble but helping others in the end.”
