I've been playing this game for a while now, but I've never been able to truly understand what "scaling" actually is.

Obviously, every champion gets objectively stronger as the game progresses. However, it seems to be universally accepted that certain champions "fall off" or "scale into the late game", which indicates effectiveness compared to other champions.

What constitutes an "early game" champion? Which characteristics do these champions possess that increases their relative strength at the start of the game (or decreases their relative strength as the game progresses)? Examples that come to mind are Jayce, Lee Sin, and Renekton.

What constitutes a "late game" champion? Which characteristics do these champions have that increases their relative strength as the game progresses (or decreases their relative strength at the game start)? Examples that come to mind are Azir, Twitch, and Vayne.

Lastly, are there any misconceptions to be aware of? In my experience, despite potentially infinite damage, Veigar is most effective mid game (GLP and Deathcap) when his CC and damage is difficult to counter.

Thanks for taking the time to read this, and I look forward to reading your responses!