Definition

To shock or offend someone by doing something that is considered morally wrong or inappropriate.

Example

The movie scandalized many viewers with its controversial themes.

Tense Forms

Conversation

Did you hear about the news that scandalized the whole community?

Yeah, it was all over social media!

I can't believe something like that could happen here.

Right? It really shook everyone up.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Scandalize → It is formed from "scandalum" (meaning a cause of offense or stumbling block) and the suffix "-ize" (meaning to make or to cause to be). The word "scandalize" means to cause someone to feel shock or outrage, often by violating moral or social norms.

Memory Tip

Think of a 'cause of offense' ('scandalum') that makes someone feel shocked or outraged — that's what it means to scandalize.

Visually Confused Words