Definition

This term refers to the act of a married person having sexual relations with someone who is not their spouse.

Example

The scandal involved allegations of adultery that shocked the community.

Conversation

Did you hear about the scandal involving that politician?

Yeah, it was all over the news — apparently, it was about adultery.

I can't believe people still take such risks, especially in the public eye.

Right? It just shows how complicated relationships can get.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Adultery → It is formed from "ad-" (meaning to) and "ulteri" (from Latin "ulterior", meaning beyond or further). The word originally referred to going beyond the bounds of marriage, thus describing the act of infidelity.

Memory Tip

Think of 'going beyond' ('ad-' means to, and 'ulteri' means further) the commitment of marriage — that's why adultery refers to being unfaithful.

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