Venal: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• The word 'venal' comes from the Latin term 'venalis,' meaning 'for sale,' which highlights the idea of being bought.
• Its root is 'venire,' which means 'to come,' indicating that something can be approached or acquired for a price.

Politics

• The term is often used to describe corrupt politicians who accept bribes in exchange for favours.
• Historically, venality has been a key factor in the downfall of empires, as corruption erodes trust in government.

Literature

• Many literary works feature venal characters who betray trust and integrity for financial gain, serving as warnings against corruption.
• Classic authors like Charles Dickens highlight venal behavior to critique societal norms and injustice.

Ethics

• Philosophers often discuss venality in the context of moral integrity, questioning how far some will go for money.
• Venal acts can undermine communal trust, leading to a breakdown in ethical behaviour in society.

Pop Culture

• Venal themes are prevalent in films and TV shows, portraying characters who compromise their values for wealth, representing a cautionary tale.
• The concept is also explored in modern video games, where players may choose to make morally questionable decisions for rewards.

At rank #25,875, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.

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• 25875 venal
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