noun

perversion

per-VUR-zhun/pərˈvɜːrʒn/

A distortion from an intended or accepted form or purpose.

The hidden magnet creates a perversion of the scale's purpose as a fair measure.

A traditional balance scale has been visibly distorted: one side is secretly weighted from underneath with a heavy dark magnet so equal-size identical weights no longer balance.

Etymology

perLatinaway

+versLatinto turn

+ionLatinaction or result

A turning away became a distortion of truth, belief, or proper conduct. Perversion names that corrupting change or its result: something diverted from the form or purpose regarded as right.

In context

LDS Lights: Uplifting Messages 3:32

Outside the bonds of marriage, all uses of the procreative power are to one degree or another a sinful degrading and perversion of the most divine attribute of men and women.

God’s Rules on Sexual Morality — What You’ve Never Heard | David A. Bednar

More examples

Using charity funds for personal luxuries is a perversion of generosity.
Critics call the new rules a perversion of fair competition.
These perversions of scientific research undermine public trust.

Forms

perversion · perversions

pervert verb — To distort something's intended form or purpose.

Similar words

distortion: Emphasizes alteration of shape, meaning, or facts rather than purpose.
corruption: Emphasizes degradation of integrity, often through dishonesty or abuse.