Scofflaw: meaning, definitions and examples
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scofflaw
[ ˈskɔːf.lɔː ]
legal term
A scofflaw is an individual who flouts the law, particularly by ignoring rules or regulations that are enforced by society. Typically, this term is used to describe those who disregard traffic regulations, tax obligations, or any other laws that carry penalties. The word implies a sense of willful defiance and a lack of respect for legal authority. Scofflaws are often viewed as irresponsible and troublesome by law enforcement and the general public.
Synonyms
criminal, delinquent, lawbreaker, offender.
Examples of usage
- The town cracked down on scofflaws who parked illegally.
- He was labeled a scofflaw after repeatedly failing to pay his taxes.
- Scofflaws often believe they are above the law.
- Catching scofflaws can be a challenge for local police.
Translations
Translations of the word "scofflaw" in other languages:
🇵🇹 infractor da lei
🇮🇳 कानून उल्लंघनकर्ता
🇩🇪 Gesetzesbrecher
🇮🇩 pelanggar hukum
🇺🇦 порушник закону
🇵🇱 łamać prawo
🇯🇵 法律違反者
🇫🇷 contrevenant
🇪🇸 infractor de la ley
🇹🇷 kanun tanımaz
🇰🇷 법 위반자
🇸🇦 مخالف القانون
🇨🇿 porušitel zákona
🇸🇰 porušovateľ zákona
🇨🇳 违法者
🇸🇮 kršitelj zakona
🇮🇸 lagabrotari
🇰🇿 заң бұзушы
🇬🇪 სანქციის დამრღვევი
🇦🇿 qanun pozucusu
🇲🇽 infractor de la ley
Etymology
The term 'scofflaw' originated in the United States during the Prohibition Era in the 1920s. It was coined in 1924 by an unknown author in a contest sponsored by a newspaper to find a suitable word for those who flouted the laws of Prohibition. The word is a portmanteau of 'scoff,' which means to mock or ridicule, and 'law,' denoting the legal restrictions of the time. Since its inception, 'scofflaw' has evolved to describe anyone who shows disdain for the laws and regulations in general, not just those related to Prohibition. Its usage grew as part of the broader cultural discourse around law enforcement, personal freedom, and civil disobedience.