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turpitude

Upper-Intermediate (B2)

IPA: /ˈtɜːrpɪtjuːd/

KK: /ˈtɜːrpɪtud/

noun
Definition

A state of being morally bad or wicked; a quality of being corrupt or depraved.


Example

The politician's turpitude shocked the community and led to his resignation.


Conversation
Sloth A
Did you hear about that scandal involving the politician?
Sloth B
Yeah, it really shows a lot of turpitude in their character.
Sloth A
It's shocking how someone in that position can act so low.
Sloth B
Exactly! It makes you question the integrity of our leaders.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
depravity
wickedness
baseness
Antonyms
virtue
goodness
honor
Root Explanation

Turpitude is derived from the Latin "turpitudo" (meaning baseness or foulness), which comes from "turpis" (meaning ugly or vile). The word "turpitude" refers to a state of moral depravity or wickedness, emphasizing the ugliness of such behavior.

Memory Tip

Think of 'ugliness' ('turpis') to remember that 'turpitude' refers to a state of moral baseness or wickedness.

Visually Confused Words
torpitude
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