scoundrel
The origin and history of scoundrel.
Etymology
First recorded in the 1500s in forms like scondrel; its ultimate origin is unclear, though it may be linked to an old northern English or Scots word meaning to shrink back in fear or disgust.
Class of 1500
scoundrel first entered the language around 1500. Other words from the same year:
See the full Class of 1500 →