depravity

word

Definition

Extreme moral corruption or wickedness; behavior that is considered deeply immoral or evil.

Usage & Nuances

Very formal and literary; used mainly to describe extreme immorality, often in philosophy, literature, or religious contexts. Collocates with 'moral', 'utter', and 'acts of'. Not used casually; stronger than 'badness' or 'wickedness'.

Example Sentences

The story describes the depravity of the villain.

basic

Many people were shocked by the depravity of the crime.

basic

He wrote a book about moral depravity in society.

basic

Some critics argue that the film celebrates depravity rather than warning against it.

natural

Centuries of war left a sense of depravity in the culture.

natural

She was horrified by the sheer depravity of what she saw online.

natural