reprobate
UK: /ˈrɛprəbeɪt/ | US: /ˈrɛprəˌbeɪt/
n. a morally unprincipled or depraved person
vt. to condemn or disapprove of strongly
adj. morally corrupt or rejected
reprobate = re<back, against> + prob<test, approve> + ate<verb/adjective suffix>
- re: From Latin re-, meaning "back" or "against." Here, it implies rejection.
- prob: From Latin probare, meaning "to test" or "approve." The root survives in words like prove and approve.
- ate: A suffix forming adjectives or verbs, often indicating a state or action (e.g., activate, desolate).
Etymology Origin:
The word reprobate originates from Latin reprobatus, the past participle of reprobare ("to disapprove"). It combines re- (expressing opposition) with probare ("to test or judge"). Initially used in theological contexts to describe those rejected by God (e.g., "reprobate silver" in the Bible), it later broadened to condemn moral corruption. The logic reflects a "failed test" of character.
The novel’s villain was a reprobate who showed no remorse for his crimes.
The committee voted to reprobate the unethical proposal.
His reprobate behavior alienated even his closest friends.
In theological debates, the term reprobate contrasts with elect.
Society often labels addicts as reprobates without addressing systemic causes.