scapegoat

[skeyp-goht] / ˈskeɪpˌgoʊt /

NOUN

person who takes blame for another's action

Synonyms

STRONGEST

fall guy

STRONG

chump doormat dupe fool goat gull mark patsy pigeon pushover sacrifice sap schmuck stooge sucker victim weakling

WEAK

boob easy mark sitting duck

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.

But some experts have suggested the technology is being used as a scapegoat for reducing headcount after a post-Covid hiring spree by many big corporates.

From BBC • May 14, 2026

When policies fail and public support craters, authoritarian regimes inevitably seek a scapegoat.

From Salon • Mar. 17, 2026

In short, the fearmongers need a new scapegoat.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 18, 2026

Economic disadvantage is perhaps the most popular scapegoat.

From The Wall Street Journal • Feb. 3, 2026

There was always one unfortunate whom the teacher singled out and used for a scapegoat.

From "A Tree Grows in Brooklyn" by Betty Smith

Vocabulary lists containing scapegoat

Idioms and Expressions, List 1

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!

Wait, What? Confusing Compound Words

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!

Jane Eyre

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!