perversion
UK: pəˈvɜːʃən | US: pərˈvɜːrʒən
n. 1. The alteration of something from its original course, meaning, or state to a distortion or corruption.
n. 2. A form of sexual behavior considered abnormal or deviant.
n. 3. (Psychology) Persistent maladaptive behavior contrary to social norms.
perversion = per<through/wrongly> + vers<turn> + ion<noun suffix>
- per (Latin per-): A prefix meaning "through," "thoroughly," or "wrongly" (in negative contexts).
- vers (Latin vertere): Root meaning "to turn."
- ion (Latin -io): Noun-forming suffix indicating an action or state.
Etymology Origin:
Derived from Latin perversio ("a turning aside, corruption"), the word combines per- (implying deviation) with vertere ("to turn"). Originally neutral ("turning thoroughly"), it evolved to imply moral or behavioral distortion (e.g., "turning away from what is right"). The sexual connotation emerged in the 19th century, reflecting societal judgments on "unnatural" acts.
The dictator’s perversion of justice led to widespread oppression.
Some argue that censorship is a perversion of free speech.
The film explores themes of power and moral perversion.
His obsession was labeled a psychological perversion.
Legal debates often arise over what constitutes a sexual perversion.