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Scrofulous (skrof-yuh-luhs) Adjective morally tainted 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 behaviour 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. Skedaddle (ski-dad-l) Verb to run away hurriedly; flee More about Skedaddle Americanism was first used between 1860–65. There’s debate over its origin but most sources connect it to Scots and Northern English dialects meaning “to spill, scatter.” The term was popularized during the American Civil War, originally spelt as skaddadle, military slang meaning “run awa