PoliticsJuly 10, 2026
scapegoat
/ˈskeɪp.ɡoʊt/
Definition
A person or group unfairly blamed for systemic problems or societal failures to deflect attention from deeper, structural issues.
Etymology
The word originated from the biblical ritual in Leviticus where a goat was symbolically burdened with the sins of the people and sent into the wilderness. It entered English in the 16th century via William Tyndale’s translation of the Bible.
In the news
Paul Ryan argues that the public is tired of divisive politics and will eventually favor a leader who offers concrete solutions rather than relying on scapegoats to explain the country's challenges.
The Patient Is America. Here's the Prescription.
Read the full article ↗Politico