noun Uncommon

scumbag

SKUHM-bag

Scumbag (noun) means a thoroughly dishonest, sleazy, or contemptible person. Example: “Only a scumbag would steal from his own grandmother.”

noun

A thoroughly dishonest, sleazy, or contemptible person.

"Only a scumbag would steal from his own grandmother."

"The landlord turned out to be a scumbag who ignored every repair request."

How to use scumbag

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishA strong insult for someone who behaves in a sleazy, dishonest, or despicable way.

When to use it

Informal and quite vulgar; avoid in polite or professional contexts.

Word forms

scumbags plural

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Only a _____ would steal from his own grandmother.

Etymology

From scum + bag; first recorded around 1953, originally slang for a condom.

· First attested 1953

Class of 1953 scumbag joined the language around 1953.

hippie

See the full Class of 1953 →

Frequently asked questions

What does “scumbag” mean?

The word “scumbag” means a thoroughly dishonest, sleazy, or contemptible person. In plain terms, a strong insult for someone who behaves in a sleazy, dishonest, or despicable way.

How do you pronounce “scumbag”?

“Scumbag” is pronounced SKUHM-bag (/ˈskʌmˌbæɡ/ in IPA).

How do you use “scumbag” in a sentence?

Here is “scumbag” used in a sentence: “Only a scumbag would steal from his own grandmother.”

What part of speech is “scumbag”?

“Scumbag” is a noun.

Where does the word “scumbag” come from?

The word “scumbag” dates back to around 1953. From scum + bag; first recorded around 1953, originally slang for a condom.

Is “scumbag” a common word?

“Scumbag” is an uncommon word in modern English.