scurvy Meaning, Definition & Usage

  1. noun a condition caused by deficiency of ascorbic acid (vitamin C)
    scorbutus.
  2. adjective satellite of the most contemptible kind
    low-down; scummy; low; abject; miserable.
    • 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

WordNet

Scur"vy adjective
Etymology
From Scurf; cf. Scurvy, n.
Wordforms
comparative Scurvier ; superlative Scurviest
Definitions
  1. Covered or affected with scurf or scabs; scabby; scurfy; specifically, diseased with the scurvy. "Whatsoever man . . . be scurvy or scabbed." lev. xxi. 18, 20.
  2. Vile; mean; low; vulgar; contemptible. "A scurvy trick." Ld. Lytton.
    That scurvy custom of taking tobacco. Swift.
    [He] spoke spoke such scurvy and provoking terms. Shak.
Scur"vy noun
Etymology
Probably from the same source as scirbute, but influenced by scurf, scurfy, scurvy, adj.; cf. D. scheurbuik scurvy, G. scharbock, LL. scorbutus. Cf. Scorbute.
Definitions
  1. (Med.) A disease characterized by livid spots, especially about the thighs and legs, due to extravasation of blood, and by spongy gums, and bleeding from almost all the mucous membranes. It is accompanied by paleness, languor, depression, and general debility. It is occasioned by confinement, innutritious food, and hard labor, but especially by lack of fresh vegetable food, or confinement for a long time to a limited range of food, which is incapable of repairing the waste of the system. It was formerly prevalent among sailors and soldiers. caused by lack of vitamin C

Webster 1913