Baseness

Noun

Definition: Lack of moral principles; bad character.

Synonyms: Depravity, Wickedness, Immorality

Antonyms: Goodness, Virtue, Integrity

Examples:

His baseness was revealed when he cheated on his wife.
The politician's baseness was exposed through his corrupt practices.

Mnemonics:

Remember the word "base" which refers to the foundation or lowest part of something. Baseness refers to moral lowliness or the lack of a strong moral foundation.

Etymology:

Origin:

Late Middle English from base + -ness. The word "base" comes from Old French "bas", from Latin "bassus" meaning low.

Historical Usage:

The word has been used since the late Middle English period, indicating a lack of moral principles or character.

Related Idioms:

Idiom:

"Sink to the depths of baseness"

Explanation:

This expression means to behave in an extremely immoral or corrupt manner.

Misconceptions:

Misconception:

Confusing baseness with meanness.

Explanation:

While both words suggest negative qualities, baseness specifically refers to the lack of moral principles, while meanness implies being unkind or petty.