Depraved

Adjective

Definition: Morally corrupt; wicked.

Synonyms: Corrupt, Wicked, Immoral, Evil

Antonyms: Virtuous, Righteous, Moral

Examples:

The depraved criminal showed no remorse for his actions.
The novel delves into the mind of a truly depraved character.

Mnemonics:

Think of "depraved" as a combination of "de" (meaning "lack" or "removal") and "praved" (a made-up word representing "virtuous"), indicating the lack or removal of virtuous qualities.

Etymology:

Origin:

Middle English; from Old French "depraver," from Latin "depravare," from "de" (meaning "thoroughly") + "pravus" (meaning "wicked" or "crooked").

Historical Usage:

The term has been used in English since the 14th century to describe morally corrupt individuals.

Related Idioms:

Idiom:

Explanation:

While both words describe abnormal behavior, "depraved" specifically refers to moral corruption and wickedness, whereas "deranged" indicates a state of insanity or mental instability. These terms are not interchangeable.

Misconceptions:

Misconception:

Assuming "depraved" is synonymous with "deranged."

Explanation: