Reprobate
Noun
Definition: A person hardened in sin or wickedness; an unprincipled or depraved individual.
Synonyms: Sinner, Scoundrel, Villain, Rogue, Miscreant
Antonyms: Saint, Virtuous person
- The reprobate showed no remorse for his actions.
- She was viewed as a reprobate due to her criminal activities.
- Think of "re" in reprobate as indicating going back to a state of sin or wickedness.
- Remember the word by connecting it to the phrase "reprobate behavior" which signifies someone lacking moral decency.
Adjective
Definition: Morally unprincipled or wicked; devoid of decency or moral integrity.
Synonyms: Depraved, Wicked, Immoral, Unprincipled, Corrupt
Antonyms: Virtuous, Moral, Upright, Righteous
- His reprobate behavior led to his downfall.
- The reprobate nature of the criminal shocked the community.
- Focus on how the "re" in reprobate emphasizes the negation or reversal of moral principles.
- Think of "reprobate" as referring to someone who is repeatedly behaving in morally wrong ways, as the prefix "re-" can signify repetition.
Etymology:
Middle English, from Old French "reprobé", from Latin "reprobatus" (past participle of "reprobare"), meaning "disapprove" or "reject".
Historical Usage:The term has been used since Middle English and has maintained a similar meaning throughout history.
Related Idioms:
"Beyond reprobate"
Explanation:Used to describe someone whose actions or behavior are even worse or more morally depraved than usual.
Misconceptions:
Confusing "reprobate" with "reprobation" or "reprobate theology".
Explanation:"Reprobation" refers to a theological concept related to God's choice to not save or predestine certain individuals, whereas "reprobate" refers to a person who is morally corrupt. The terms may be related, but they have distinct meanings.