Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

scapegoat

noun

/ˈskeɪpˌɡoʊt/

Definition

A person or group that is blamed for the wrongdoings, mistakes, or faults of others.

Examples

During the meeting, the manager made Jane the scapegoat for the project’s failure.
In times of crisis, it is common for leaders to choose a scapegoat to appease public anger.
The team leader didn’t want to be the scapegoat for the missed deadline.

Meaning

The term ‘scapegoat’ refers to someone who is unfairly made to bear the blame for problems, often to deflect attention from the true source of the issues.