Definition

Describing something that is mean or contemptible, often causing disgust or scorn.

Example

His scurvy behavior made him unpopular among his peers.

Comparatives & Superlatives

Conversation

Did you see how they treated that new guy at work?

Yeah, it was really scurvy of them to ignore him like that.

I know, right? It just shows how mean-spirited some people can be.

Totally! We should stick up for him next time.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Definition

A health condition that occurs when a person does not get enough vitamin C, leading to symptoms like swollen gums, bleeding skin, and weakness.

Example

Sailors in the past often suffered from scurvy due to a lack of fresh fruits and vegetables on long voyages.

Conversation

Did you know that sailors used to get scurvy from not eating fresh fruits?

Yeah, I heard that vitamin C deficiency was a big problem at sea.

It's crazy how something as simple as an orange could prevent scurvy.

Root Explanation

**Scurvy** → The word 'scurvy' originates from the Middle French *escorbut*, which itself comes from the Latin *scorbutus*, meaning a disease caused by a deficiency of vitamin C. The term describes a condition characterized by symptoms such as bleeding gums and weakness, primarily due to lack of fresh fruits and vegetables in the diet.

Memory Tip

Imagine a time when sailors lacked fresh fruits and vegetables, leading to a disease called scurvy. This helps you remember that scurvy is related to a deficiency of vitamin C.

Visually Confused Words