This is the 11060th most frequent German word.
schurke
Villain, scoundrel, or rogue.
Here, 'Schurke' is used as a noun referring to a 'villain' or 'rogue' who engages in deceitful or dishonest activities.
Der Schurke hatte einen hinterhältigen Plan geschmiedet.
The villain had devised an insidious plan.
In this sentence, 'Schurke' conveys someone behaving contrary to societal norms, specifically as a thief and escapee.
Er verhielt sich wie ein Schurke, stahl das Geld und entkam.
He behaved like a rogue, stole the money, and escaped.
Here, 'Schurke' is used colloquially to describe someone who is mischievous but not entirely bad-hearted.