Definition

Very bad or shocking, especially in a way that is easy to notice.

Example

The company's egregious disregard for safety regulations led to a serious accident.

Conversation

Did you see that news story about the politician?

Yeah, it was absolutely shocking!

I can't believe they would do something so egregious.

Right? It's hard to understand how they thought they could get away with it.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Egregious → It is formed from "e-" (meaning out) and "grex" (meaning flock or herd). The word originally described something that stands out from the herd, but over time it has taken on a negative connotation, meaning remarkably bad or shocking.

Memory Tip

Think of something that stands out 'out' ('e-') from a 'flock' ('grex') — that's why egregious means something that is shockingly bad.

Visually Confused Words