Definition

A quality or state of behaving in a way that is contrary to what is expected or desired, often in a stubborn or unreasonable manner.

Example

His perversity made it difficult for him to maintain friendships.

Conversation

Did you hear about that movie everyone's talking about?

Yeah, I heard it has a lot of perversity in it.

I wonder what drives people to enjoy such perversity in films.

Maybe it’s just a way to explore the darker sides of human nature.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

**Perversity** → It is formed from "per-" (meaning through or thoroughly) and "vertere" (meaning to turn). The word describes a state of being turned away from what is right or good, hence a moral deviation.

Memory Tip

Think of something being 'thoroughly turned' ('per-') in the wrong direction ('vertere') — that's why perversity means a moral deviation.

Visually Confused Words