scurvy

/'skə:vi/
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scurvy

A sailor with scurvy eats a fresh orange on the ship's deck.

Definition

  1. Adjective:

    • Despicable, contemptible: Used to describe someone or something that is mean, dishonorable, or worthy of scorn.
    • Low, vile: Characterizing actions or behavior that are morally reprehensible.

  2. Noun:

    • A disease caused by vitamin C deficiency: A medical condition historically common among sailors, characterized by weakness, anemia, gum disease, and skin hemorrhages, resulting from a lack of ascorbic acid (vitamin C) in the diet.
Examples of Usage

  • Adjective:

    • That was a scurvy trick to play on a friend.
    • The pirate captain was known for his scurvy and underhanded dealings.

  • Noun:

    • Many sailors in the 18th century suffered from scurvy on long voyages.
    • A diet rich in citrus fruits can prevent scurvy.
Advanced Usage
  • The adjectival use is now considered archaic or literary. It is rarely used in modern everyday conversation but may be found in historical fiction or to create a period-specific tone.
    • The villain in the novel was portrayed as a scurvy knave.
Variants and Related Words
  • Scurvily (adverb): In a contemptible or mean manner.
    • He acted scurvily towards his competitors.
  • Scurviness (noun): The state or quality of being scurvy (despicable).
Synonyms
  • Adjective: Despicable, contemptible, vile, low, abject, wretched.
  • Noun: (For the disease) scorbutus (the medical term).
Word Origin and Notes
  • The word's dual meanings have different origins. The noun comes from the disease's historical association with sailors ( + ). The adjective meaning "contemptible" likely evolved from the idea of being afflicted with a disgusting disease, thus becoming a term of abuse.
scurvy

A sailor with scurvy eats a fresh orange on the ship's deck.

Adjective
  1. of the most contemptible kind
    • abject cowardice
    • a low stunt to pull
    • a low-down sneak
    • his miserable treatment of his family
    • You miserable skunk!
    • a scummy rabble
    • a scurvy trick
Noun
  1. a condition caused by deficiency of ascorbic acid (vitamin C)

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