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 of scandalous

• disgusting
• ugly
• sickening
• shocking
• horrible
• awful
• obscene
• hideous
• obnoxious
• offensive
• dreadful
• nasty

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

Depp getting this reception at a major industry event is enough to qualify as a win given his scandalous history, and the movie’s footage was compelling as well. —James Hibberd, HollywoodReporter, 17 Apr. 2026

Known for its screeching headlines, up-to-the-second scoops, and contentious practice of paying off sources for scandalous tips, the tabloid has widened its pitiless lens to include officials across the political spectrum. —Paula Mejía, New Yorker, 15 Apr. 2026

Elizabeth Taylor married eight times, but the most scandalous may have been her wedding to fourth husband Eddie Fisher on May 12, 1959. —Savannah Walsh, Vanity Fair, 13 Apr. 2026

The scandalous yet persistent naked dressing trend has continued to dominate red carpets. —Anna Cafolla, Vogue, 9 Apr. 2026

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