Turpitude: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• Derived from the Latin word 'turpitudo,' which means 'ugliness or shame.'
• The root 'turpis' in Latin translates to 'shameful or foul,' giving insight into the word's negative connotation.
• The transformation from Latin to English was common in the medieval period, reflecting societal views on morality.

Literature

• The term appears in various legal and philosophical texts, often used to discuss moral failing.
• In literature, characters exhibiting turpitude often face consequences, highlighting ethical themes in stories.
• Writers like Shakespeare and Dostoevsky explored the idea of moral corruption, illustrating turpitude through their characters' actions.

Psychology

• Turpitude may be linked to concepts of moral disengagement, where people rationalize their bad actions.
• Research in moral psychology examines how society defines turpitude and its impact on behaviors and norms.
• Feelings of guilt and shame often accompany acts of turpitude, affecting individuals’ mental health and relationships.

Legal Context

• In legal terms, turpitude often relates to 'moral turpitude,' which can affect employment and immigration status.
• Acts considered to involve turpitude might include fraud, violence, or deception, often influencing court rulings.
• Some professions require a clean record free of turpitude for licensing, emphasizing the importance of ethical behavior.

Ethics

• Philosophers debate the meaning of moral turpitude, questioning what actions truly reflect immorality.
• Cultural perspectives on turpitude can vary, with different societies defining bad behavior according to their values.
• Ethical frameworks often address behaviors associated with turpitude, examining their implications for personal and community well-being.

Positioned at #23,746, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.

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• 23743 osteotomy
• 23744 stowage
• 23745 artefact
• 23746 turpitude
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• 23748 casement
• 23749 duped
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