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depravity

noun

/dɪˈpravɪti/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of depravity

The state or quality of being morally corrupt, wicked, or morally degraded to a severe and often shocking degree.
"The novel delves into the depravity and corruption of high society."

Detailed meaning of depravity

It implies a state of moral decay or the indulgence in immoral, unethical, or wicked behaviors that go against accepted norms of decency and humanity. Depravity encompasses actions, thoughts, or attitudes that are considered deeply sinful, evil, or reprehensible. This term is often used in discussions of ethics, morality, and human behavior to describe the most extreme forms of moral corruption and degradation, such as heinous crimes or acts of extreme cruelty. It signifies a departure from ethical principles and a descent into the darkest aspects of human nature, often evoking strong feelings of condemnation and revulsion.

Example sentences containing depravity

1. The depravity of the criminal's actions shocked the community.
2. His music was criticized for its perceived depravity and vulgarity.
3. The book explores the depravity of human nature and the consequences of unchecked power.
4. The dictator's regime was marked by its depravity and human rights abuses.
5. The jury was disgusted by the depravity of the defendant's crimes.
6. The movie was banned for its explicit depiction of depravity and violence.

History and etymology of depravity

The noun 'depravity' has an etymology rooted in Latin. It is derived from the Latin word 'depravitas,' which is formed by combining 'de,' meaning 'completely' or 'thoroughly,' and 'pravitas,' meaning 'perversity' or 'crookedness.' In its original sense, 'depravity' signified a state or quality of being morally corrupt or wicked to a severe and often shocking degree, emphasizing a thorough and profound moral degradation. Over time, the term was adopted into English and retained this sense, describing extreme moral corruption or wickedness. The etymology of 'depravity' underscores the idea of a profound and thorough moral deterioration, highlighting the severe and shocking nature of such moral degradation.

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Further usage examples of depravity

1. The cult leader's depravity was uncovered after his arrest.
2. The serial killer's depravity and lack of remorse sent chills down the spine of the investigators.
3. The politician's depravity was revealed in a scandalous exposé.
4. The history of the prison is marked by the depravity and inhumane treatment of its inmates.
5. The character in the play descends into depravity as a result of his unchecked greed and ambition.
6. The depravity of the criminal's actions shocked the entire community.
7. Literature often explores the depths of human depravity.
8. Society was appalled by the depravity of the cult's rituals.
9. His trial revealed the extent of his moral depravity.
10. The movie depicted the depravity of war in a raw and harrowing manner.
11. The dictator's reign was marked by unimaginable depravity.
12. The artist's work delved into the dark corners of human depravity.
13. The novel exposed the depravity hidden beneath the veneer of society.
14. The criminal's depravity extended to even the most heinous acts.
15. His actions reflected a level of depravity that was difficult to comprehend.
16. The documentary explored the depravity of the criminal mind.
17. The journalist uncovered shocking acts of depravity in the city's underbelly.
18. The court was tasked with passing judgment on the defendant's depravity.
19. The poem's themes revolved around the duality of human depravity.
20. The play dared to confront the depths of human depravity on stage.
21. Her research focused on the historical roots of societal depravity.
22. The detective was hardened by years of witnessing human depravity.
23. The writer's stories often delved into the darkness of human depravity.
24. The war crimes trial exposed the depravity of those involved.
25. The novel's narrative was a descent into moral depravity.
26. The artist's paintings were a reflection of the world's moral depravity.
27. The depravity of the villain's actions made him a truly detestable character.
28. The film was a disturbing exploration of human depravity.
29. The investigator was haunted by the depravity he encountered in his cases.
30. The city's history was marked by periods of moral depravity and renewal.