scandalous

adjective

scan·​dal·​ous ˈskan-də-ləs 

1

: libelous, defamatory

scandalous allegations

2

: offensive to propriety or morality : shocking

scandalous behavior

scandalously adverb

scandalousness noun

Synonyms

• abhorrent
• abominable
• appalling
• awful
• disgusting
• distasteful
• dreadful
• evil
• foul
• fulsome
• gross
• hideous
• horrendous
• horrible
• horrid
• loathsome
• nasty
• nauseating
• nauseous
• noisome
• noxious
• obnoxious
• obscene
• odious
• offensive
• rancid
• repellent
• repellant
• repugnant
• repulsive
• revolting
• shocking
• sickening
• ugly

Examples of scandalous in a Sentence

Sex was a scandalous subject back then.

The magazine published scandalous pictures of the movie star.

The high price of gas these days is scandalous.

She was spreading scandalous rumors about him.

Recent Examples on the Web

Berg calls the European Commission’s inaction disrespectful and scandalous. —Christine Ro, Forbes, 15 Dec. 2024

At the time, interracial romances were considered scandalous, and even outlawed in some states. —Liz McNeil, People.com, 2 Nov. 2024

Putting the scandalous album cover to the side, Head Games captures Foreigner at their arena-rock best, blending raw energy with slick production. —Darryn King, Forbes, 7 Dec. 2024

That’s not how scandalous pardons are usually timed. —Andrew C. McCarthy, National Review, 3 Dec. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1575, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

scandalous

adjective

scan·​dal·​ous ˈskan-d(ə-)ləs 

1

: harmful to one's reputation : defamatory

denied the truth of the scandalous rumors

2

: shocking

scandalous behavior

scandalously adverb