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Scumbag
01
a dishonest, immoral, or thoroughly unpleasant person who behaves in a contemptible way
Dialect
American
American
Offensive
Slang
Grammatical Information
Animacy status
Human
Composition
Compound
Countable
Plural form
scumbags
What is the origin of the term "scumbag" and how is it used?
"Scumbag" is an American slang term that appeared in the mid-20th century, originally as prison slang in the 1940s–1950s. It literally referred to a condom, but quickly shifted metaphorically to describe someone considered morally repulsive, dishonest, or contemptible. The word conveys strong disdain and is used in informal speech, media, and political commentary to condemn people's behavior, often with anger or disgust. It is clearly derogatory and offensive, with little neutral or humorous usage outside of exaggerated or fictional contexts.
Examples
He took the tip money off the table when no one was looking – what a scumbag.
