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Why Dictionary.com chose scrofulous
More about scrofulous
- First recorded in 1605–15.
- Formed from scroful(a) + -ous.
- Here are just a few more adjectives formed from diseases or medical conditions that gained figurative (and negative) meanings: pestiferous, cancerous, bilious, hysterical, choleric, melancholic, paranoid, frenzied, morbid, apoplectic, dyspeptic.
EXAMPLES OF SCROFULOUS
- The leader’s scrofulous behavior was evident in her frequent abuses of power and disregard for ethical standards.
- The play’s antagonist was portrayed as a scrofulous character, whose corrupt actions ultimately led to his downfall.
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Why Dictionary.com chose exculpate
More about exculpate
- First recorded in 1650–60.
- From Latin exculpātus, “freed from blame,” equivalent to ex-1, “without” + culpātus, “blamed,” past participle of culpāre; see culpable.
EXAMPLES OF EXCULPATE
- The new evidence served to exculpate the defendant from all charges.
- The lawyer worked tirelessly to exculpate his client and prove her innocence.
riffraff
noun
a group of people regarded as disreputable or worthless
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Why Dictionary.com chose riffraff
More about riffraff
- First used in English between 1425–75.
- From late Middle English rif and raf, “every particle, things of small value.” From Old French rif et raf, formed on rifler, “to spoil.” See rifle2, “to ravage, snatch away.”
EXAMPLES OF RIFFRAFF
- The locals complained about the riffraff who gathered in the park at night, causing trouble.
- At the carnival, security was on high alert for any riffraff trying to disrupt the fun.
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