Definition of: scandal

(skan′dəl) noun
1. The heedless or malicious repetition of evil reports; aspersion of character.
2. Reproach caused by outrageous or improper conduct.
3. A discreditable circumstance, event, or action; cause of reproach.
4. Injury to reputation, or general comment causing it.
5. Law Malicious defamation by word of mouth.
6. One whose conduct disgraces. [<AF escandle <L scandalum a cause of stumbling <Gk. skandalon a snare; refashioned after MF scandale <L scandalum. Doublet of SLANDER.] Synonyms: aspersion, backbiting, calumny, defamation, detraction, obloquy, odium, reproach, slander. Scandal may be odious truth; slander is certain falsehood. Antonyms: applause, celebrity, credit, eulogy, fame, glory, honor, renown, reputation, repute.