according to wikipedia:
--A publicized incident that brings about disgrace or offends the
moral sensibilities of society: a drug scandal that forced the
mayor's resignation.
--A person, thing, or circumstance that causes or ought to cause
disgrace or outrage: a politician whose dishonesty is a scandal;
considered the housing shortage a scandal.
--Damage to reputation or character caused by public disclosure of
immoral or grossly improper behavior; disgrace.
--Talk that is damaging to one's character; malicious gossip.
