Scoundrel: meaning, definitions and examples
๐ฆนโโ๏ธ
scoundrel
[หskaสn.drษl ]
Definition
dishonest person
A scoundrel is a person who is dishonest, untrustworthy, and generally behaves in a morally reprehensible way. Scoundrels are often known for their deceitful behavior and lack of integrity.
Synonyms
knave, rascal, rogue, villain.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| scoundrel |
Generally used to describe a person who behaves dishonestly or unscrupulously. Often carries strong negative connotations.
|
| rascal |
Often used playfully or affectionately to describe someone who is mischievous rather than truly evil. Can be used for both children and adults.
|
| villain |
Typically used to describe a character who is evil or malicious, particularly in literature, film, and drama. Has strong negative connotations.
|
| rogue |
Can be used more neutrally or even positively to describe someone who is charming or adventurous but not necessarily law-abiding. Often implies a certain level of independence.
|
| knave |
An old-fashioned term typically used in historical or fantasy settings. It conveys a sense of dishonesty or trickery.
|
Examples of usage
- He's a scoundrel who will do anything to get what he wants.
- The scoundrel tricked her into giving him her life savings.
- Beware of that scoundrel, he cannot be trusted.
Interesting Facts
Etymology
- The term 'scoundrel' comes from the Old French word 'escondre', which means 'to hide'.
- Earlier, 'scoundrel' referred to someone who was an outcast or a rogue, indicating dishonesty.
- By the 17th century, it became more associated with a petty thief or a knave.
Literature
- Characters labeled as scoundrels appear frequently in literature, often portraying a charming yet dishonest rogue, like in 'The Three Musketeers'.
- The name of the famous character 'Scoundrel' in the play 'The Tempest' reflects the notion of betrayal and trickery.
- In modern literature and film, scoundrels often bring humor or drama, showcasing the duality of charm and deceit.
Pop Culture
- In popular films, scoundrel characters often are anti-heroes, like Jack Sparrow from 'Pirates of the Caribbean', who exemplifies charm and cunning.
- The term has been popularized in songs and musical theater, frequently describing a lovable rogue.
- Classic cartoons feature scoundrel characters as the antagonist who causes trouble, illustrating the playful aspects of mischief.
Psychology
- Research indicates that scoundrels often possess traits like charisma and manipulation, making them appear charming despite their misdeeds.
- They can exploit social norms to their advantage, walking a thin line between accepted behavior and deceit.
- The attraction to scoundrel figures in stories may stem from a fascination with rebellion against authority.
Historical Context
- During the 18th century, political scoundrels in Europe played significant roles in revolutions, often being both vilified and admired.
- Many historical figures known as scoundrels shaped political landscapes, from revolutionaries to corrupt leaders, illustrating the thin line between hero and villain.
- In the Wild West, figures deemed scoundrels were often outlaws, romanticized in folklore and further blurring the lines of morality.
Translations
Translations of the word "scoundrel" in other languages:
๐ต๐น canalha
๐ฎ๐ณ เคฆเฅเคทเฅเค
๐ฉ๐ช Schurke
๐ฎ๐ฉ penjahat
๐บ๐ฆ ัะฐั ัะฐะน
๐ต๐ฑ ลajdak
๐ฏ๐ต ๆชๅ
๐ซ๐ท scรฉlรฉrat
๐ช๐ธ canalla
๐น๐ท sahtekar
๐ฐ๐ท ์ ๋น
๐ธ๐ฆ ู ุญุชุงู
๐จ๐ฟ zlosyn
๐ธ๐ฐ podvodnรญk
๐จ๐ณ ๆ ่ต
๐ธ๐ฎ prevarant
๐ฎ๐ธ sjรกlfselskur
๐ฐ๐ฟ ะฐะปะฐัา
๐ฌ๐ช แแแแแแจแแแ
๐ฆ๐ฟ ลarlatan
๐ฒ๐ฝ canalla