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.

In the aftermath of the scandal, voters were apparently drawn to Becerra’s long resume and calm, thoughtful demeanor.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 6, 2026

President Donald Trump’s $10 billion lawsuit against the Internal Revenue Service over a leaked tax-return scandal from six years ago was on the verge of an epic settlement.

From Slate • Jun. 4, 2026

She spent more than a year in pretrial detention while under investigation for alleged money laundering linked to the Odebrecht corruption scandal.

From Barron's • Jun. 3, 2026

The scandal triggered an upswing of voter interest in California’s once sluggish governor’s race and in Becerra, who seized the moment.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 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

Vocabulary lists containing scandal

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

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

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Simply Scandalous!

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