Perversion: meaning, definitions and examples

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perversion

 

[ pərˈvɜːr.ʒən ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

sexual behavior

Perversion refers to a deviation from what is considered normal sexual behavior, often involving unconventional practices or desires. It can also pertain to a corruption or distortion of an idea or principle.

Synonyms

aberration, deviation, distortion.

Examples of usage

  • His perversion of traditional values provoked widespread criticism.
  • Many people believe that perversion should be treated with compassion and understanding.
  • The book explores the theme of sexual perversion in modern society.
Context #2 | Noun

moral corruption

Perversion can also indicate a form of moral corruption or the act of misrepresenting or corrupting an original idea. This usage often implies a negative connotation regarding the distortion of truth.

Synonyms

corruption, debauchery, misrepresentation.

Examples of usage

  • The documentary highlights the perversion of justice in the system.
  • Perversion of language can lead to misunderstandings.
  • The journalist denounced the perversion of facts in the reporting.

Translations

Translations of the word "perversion" in other languages:

🇵🇹 perversão

🇮🇳 विकृत्ति

🇩🇪 Perversion

🇮🇩 perversi

🇺🇦 перверсія

🇵🇱 perwersja

🇯🇵 倒錯 (とうさく)

🇫🇷 perversion

🇪🇸 perversión

🇹🇷 sapkınlık

🇰🇷 변태 (byeontae)

🇸🇦 انحراف

🇨🇿 perverze

🇸🇰 perverzia

🇨🇳 变态 (biàntài)

🇸🇮 perverzija

🇮🇸 perversion

🇰🇿 перверсия

🇬🇪 პერვერსია

🇦🇿 perversiya

🇲🇽 perversión

Etymology

The term 'perversion' comes from the Latin root 'pervertere', where 'per' means thoroughly and 'vertere' means to turn. It began to be used in English around the early 17th century, initially referring to the act of turning something away from its proper course or condition. Over time, the meaning evolved to encompass a broader range of deviations from societal or moral norms, particularly in relation to sexual behavior. The word has had various connotations in psychological and sociological contexts, often used to describe behaviors that are considered unacceptable or abnormal by contemporary standards. The association with moral or ethical corruption has become especially pronounced in discussions about societal norms and individual behavior.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #16,798, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.