scarlet letter
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Controversial newsmakers—Monica Lewinsky, Tonya Harding, Lorena Bobbitt among them—had the term pinioned to them like a scarlet letter, stripping away their accomplishments and leaving only scorned husks of their real selves.
From Salon ● Mar. 23, 2025
“I became worried that despite the inclusive design and urban planning, the project would have a scarlet letter, and residents would become stigmatized before the building even opened,” Pooley said.
From Seattle Times ● Jan. 31, 2024
It is a permanent portrait of shame — the legal system’s scarlet letter.
From New York Times ● Aug. 24, 2023
Historically, climate advocacy as a scientist has been viewed by some as akin to a scarlet letter, a move that could jeopardize a researcher’s credibility or job.
From Washington Post ● May 20, 2022
“Mother,” said she, “what does the scarlet letter mean?”
From The Scarlet Letter by Foote, Mary Hallock
