scurvy

(1) A disease caused by deficiency of vitamin C, often affecting sailors. More British sailors died of scurvy in the 18th century than in war. During the Seven Years War the Royal Navy lost 133,708 of 184,899 enlisted soldiers, most of whom died from scurvy.

(2) Mean and contemptible; a derogatory adjective suitable for use in a booming voice, as in "Ye scurvy dogs!"