what’s the origin of the word scoundrel? I can’t seem to find out anywhere I look.
Thanks. 
The Online Etymology Dictionary is always a good place to start with this sort of query. Here it’s not too much help, but does at least suggest a theory, which is more than my desk dictionary does (that just says “16th century, of unknown origin”).
Here’s an alternative suggestion, which seems more sure of itself:
I’m not entirely convinced by either of those, but take your pick