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.
Etymology
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
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
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.