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Definitions

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.

Ballerina Farm, where former ballet dancer Hannah Neeleman makes a spectacle of her wifely submission, has over 10 million Instagram followers, despite a recent scandal over her company’s raw milk sales.

From Salon • Apr. 8, 2026

The scandal coincided with the termination of its chief executive, Ross Levinsohn, who once held a leadership role at the Los Angeles Times.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 5, 2026

The Epstein scandal continues to dog Blanche, who after Bondi’s missteps oversaw the problematic release of a massive trove of documents related to the matter.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 4, 2026

Greek police last year made dozens of non-political arrests over the scandal.

From Barron's • Apr. 3, 2026

I ask whether Skeeter is referring to Dumbledore’s brother, Aberforth, whose conviction by the Wizengamot for misuse of magic caused a minor scandal fifteen years ago.

From "Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows" by J.K. Rowling