scandal

[skan-dl] / ˈskæn dl /

NOUN

public embarrassment

Synonyms

STRONGEST

crime rumor wrongdoing

STRONG

aspersion calumny defamation depreciation detraction discredit disgrace dishonor disparagement disrepute dynamite gossip hearsay ignominy infamy mud obloquy opprobrium reproach scorcher shame sin slander tale talk turpitude

WEAK

backbiting backstabbing belittlement dirty linen eavesdropping idle rumor skeleton in closet

Antonyms

STRONGEST

good deed

STRONG

approval commendation compliment esteem exaltation flattery goodness honor morality praise respect

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.

Mr. Sullivan recounts the 1919 Black Sox scandal, in which members of the Chicago White Sox threw the World Series.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 22, 2026

The Malaysian financier recently submitted a pardon request, some 10 years after he disappeared amid a $4.5 billion scandal.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 20, 2026

The former boss of the government-backed bank resigned over the scandal in March.

From BBC • May 19, 2026

Revealing much about the Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor scandal was Andrew Lownie's biography, Entitled, which is being released again this week with fresh allegations.

From BBC • May 18, 2026

"We'd rather not turn this into a scandal," the queen says.

From "The Belles" by Dhonielle Clayton

Vocabulary lists containing scandal

"Laws are not the only way to boost immunization”: an editorial from Nature

Looking to grow your vocabulary? Check out this interactive, curated word list from our team of English language specialists at Vocabulary.com – one of over 17,000 lists we've built to help learners worldwide!

This Week in Words: Current Events Vocab for September 11–September 17, 2021

Interested in learning more words like this one? Our team at Vocabulary.com has got you covered! You can review flashcards, quiz yourself, practice spelling, and more – and it's all completely free to use!

Simply Scandalous!

Want to remember this word for good? Start your learning journey today with our library of interactive, themed word lists built by the experts at Vocabulary.com – we'll help you make the most of your study time!