Example Sentences
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to
show current usage.
Read More
Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors.
Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of scapegoats
Nations without trust in domestic institutions often turn outward in search of scapegoats.
—
Klaus Schwab, Time, 5 Jan. 2026
This time, Nixon was one of several scapegoats for a dismal 22-16 Packers loss.
—Matt Schneidman, New York Times, 21 Dec. 2025
There’s also Hank (Stephen Rider) and Veronica Grogan (Amanda Christine), a single Black father and his daughter, who work at the town’s movie theater and become scapegoats in the disappearance of some of the town’s kids.
—Andrew McGowan, Variety, 10 Nov. 2025
Orbán has long sought to consolidate his power through concocting scapegoats for Hungary’s ills.
—Christian Edwards, CNN Money, 19 Sep. 2025
The hypocrisy of a society continually looking for scapegoats to assign blame while refusing to examine its own dark heart provides a semblance of subtext.
—David Rooney, HollywoodReporter, 5 Aug. 2025
Klaus Schwab, Time, 5 Jan. 2026
This time, Nixon was one of several scapegoats for a dismal 22-16 Packers loss.
—Matt Schneidman, New York Times, 21 Dec. 2025
There’s also Hank (Stephen Rider) and Veronica Grogan (Amanda Christine), a single Black father and his daughter, who work at the town’s movie theater and become scapegoats in the disappearance of some of the town’s kids.
—Andrew McGowan, Variety, 10 Nov. 2025
Orbán has long sought to consolidate his power through concocting scapegoats for Hungary’s ills.
—Christian Edwards, CNN Money, 19 Sep. 2025
The hypocrisy of a society continually looking for scapegoats to assign blame while refusing to examine its own dark heart provides a semblance of subtext.
—David Rooney, HollywoodReporter, 5 Aug. 2025
Recent Examples of Synonyms for scapegoats
Noun
-
In some cases, the department inadvertently released nude photos showing the faces of potential victims as well as names, email addresses and other identifying information that was either unredacted or not fully obscured.—
Alanna Durkin Richer,
Fortune,
6 Mar. 2026
-
Police identified two other victims and contacted their parents.—
Nick Ferraro,
Twin Cities,
6 Mar. 2026
Noun
-
Chaps coach Vickie Benson offered no excuses for the loss.—
Rick Cantu,
Austin American Statesman,
8 Mar. 2026
-
With locations in both Brickell and Wynwood, this high-energy karaoke lounge is basically already in your backyard — no excuses.—
Lauren Schuster,
Miami Herald,
6 Mar. 2026
Noun
-
By Jenna Jarrah / Correspondent The San Fernando Valley Audubon Society has deployed over 500 goats in the Sepulveda Basin, in partnership with Mayor Karen Bass’ office, to address wild,mostly invasive vegetation called firebrush that accelerates fires in the area.—
Daily News,
Daily News,
7 Mar. 2026
-
Tour properties include dramatic subtropical and desert landscaping, a front yard devoted entirely to succulents, kinetic metal and mosaic art, resident goats and a stop with 17 fruit trees alongside proteas and exotic succulents.—
Martina Schimitschek,
San Diego Union-Tribune,
7 Mar. 2026
Cite this Entry
“Scapegoats.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/scapegoats. Accessed 9 Mar. 2026.
Copy CitationLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
