re-

back, again; restoration or reversal

Forms

re-
red- — An early Latin form used before vowels and h.

Origin

Its ancestry before Latin is uncertain.

Note

In some old compounds the prefix adds emphasis, while in others its separate contribution has become unclear.

175 / 284

noun / adjective

reprobate

REP-ruh-bayt/rˈɛprɔbeɪt/

Morally corrupt or unprincipled, or a person who is so.

The old reprobate cheats his friends and brags about it.

Well-dressed adult cheats companions at cards by hiding extra ace in sleeve, unethical behavior clearly visible, no glamor.

Etymology

reLatinback, again; restoration or reversal

+probateLatintest, approve, or show to be good

The prefix perhaps reverses the idea of proving someone worthy, yielding rejection or condemnation. The noun moved from someone rejected by God and given over to sin to an immoral or unprincipled person.

In context

Storytime Haven94:03

She smiled gaily and waved her hand to Roaring Abel. Why not? She had always liked the old sinner. He was such a jolly, picturesque, unashamed reprobate

📖 The Blue Castle by L. M. Montgomery | A Tale of Love & Freedom 💙✨

More examples

She refuses to defend her brother's reprobate conduct.
The novel follows two charming reprobates who swindle wealthy tourists.
Even his closest allies condemn the governor's reprobate behavior.

Forms

reprobate · reprobates

Similar words

unscrupulous: Emphasizes willingness to act dishonestly for personal advantage.
depraved: Suggests more extreme moral corruption or deeply disturbing conduct.
scoundrel: Names a dishonest or dishonorable person without religious overtones.