Scapegoat

A scapegoat is a person or group that is unfairly blamed for problems or negative outcomes, often to divert attention from the real issues or to protect those in power. The term originates from an ancient ritual where a goat was symbolically burdened with the sins of the community and then sent away. In everyday contexts, scapegoats can be individuals or groups who take the blame for the mistakes of others, which can lead to social stigma or isolation, while the true causes of the problems remain unaddressed.