How Do You Spell SCOFFLAW?

Pronunciation: [skˈɒflɔː] (IPA)

Scofflaw, a term used to describe someone who habitually flouts or disregards the law, is an interesting word. Its spelling is a combination of two words- "scoff" and "law". It is pronounced /ˈskɒflɔː/, with the stress on the first syllable. The "scoff" part is pronounced as /skɒf/, and the "law" part is pronounced as /lɔː/. The word originated in the United States during the Prohibition era and gained widespread popularity due to its use during that time. Despite its negative connotations, it has also become a cultural icon.

SCOFFLAW Meaning and Definition

1. A "scofflaw" refers to an individual who habitually and openly disregards or flouts the law. The term is commonly used to describe someone who consistently violates legal regulations without remorse or fear of consequences. The nature of scofflaws often involves intentionally defying rules, regulations, and ordinances, displaying a general contempt for legal obligations.

   The word originated in the United States during the Prohibition era in the 1920s when the sale, manufacture, and transportation of alcohol were prohibited. At that time, individuals who continued to consume or distribute alcohol despite the law were known as "scofflaws." Over time, the term has evolved to encompass anyone who habitually violates laws, regardless of the specific nature of the laws being broken.

   Scofflaws typically exhibit a blatant disregard for societal norms as they intentionally flout regulations. They may engage in activities such as speeding, parking in restricted areas, evading taxes, or engaging in illegal trade. Moreover, they often refuse to acknowledge any guilt or feel any moral obligation to conform to legal frameworks.

   The term "scofflaw" carries a negative connotation, implying an inherent disrespect for authority and a lack of regard for the well-being and safety of others. Its usage is often employed as a way to describe and condemn behavior that undermines the rule of law and societal harmony.

Common Misspellings for SCOFFLAW

• acofflaw
• zcofflaw
• xcofflaw
• dcofflaw
• ecofflaw
• wcofflaw
• sxofflaw
• svofflaw
• scoflaw
• skofflaw
• scofflew
• Scufflar
• scofelaw
• scoflaww
• skoffelaw
• scoffleaw
• scofflow

Etymology of SCOFFLAW

The word "scofflaw" was coined during the Prohibition era in the United States, specifically in 1924. It is a blend of the words "scoff" and "law". "Scoff" means to openly show contempt or derision, while "law" refers to rules or regulations enacted by a governing authority. The term was initially created for a competition held by a temperance organization called the Anti-Saloon League, which aimed to find an apt word to describe individuals who continued to consume alcohol despite it being illegal at the time. The winning entry, "scofflaw", was a combination of these words meant to derisively describe those who flouted the law by drinking alcohol. The term gained popularity and eventually became a part of the English language, now referring more broadly to individuals who disregard or mock laws in general.

Similar spelling words for SCOFFLAW

• schefflera,
• scuffle,
• scapula,
• scoopful,
• Scheffel.

Plural form of SCOFFLAW is SCOFFLAWS