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.

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

Around Thanksgiving 2009, a report that Woods had been in a car accident near his home erupted into a major scandal involving allegations of affairs.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 31, 2026

The pilot episode, “The First Book of Taylor,” explores the fallout of the swinging scandal and ends with Paul’s 2023 arrest.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 30, 2026

I can tell she’s mortified, but it smells of pageant scandal and I kind of love it.

From "Dumplin'" by Julie Murphy

scandal

Example Sentences

Related Words