Turpitude
hardNegative toneTUR-pi-tood
noun
Definition
depravity or baseness of moral character
Memory hook
TURPITUDE: think 'TURPID attitude' — a slimy, vile attitude so corrupt it stains everyone nearby.
Word roots
Learning roots unlocks whole word families. Study common GRE root words.
Examples
“He was disbarred for conduct involving moral turpitude.”
“The exposé chronicled a level of turpitude that shocked even seasoned investigators.”
Test yourself
Fill in the blank with the right word:
“He was disbarred for conduct involving moral ______.”
Show answer
turpitude
Synonyms
Antonyms
Categories
GRE Tip
Turpitude is a hard-difficulty GRE word. On the GRE, you might see it paired with synonyms like "depravity" or "wickedness" in Sentence Equivalence questions. Look for contrast clues (however, despite, although) that signal the opposite meaning. Words like "virtue".
Related GRE Words
enormity
The great or extreme scale of something bad; a grave crime or sin
aberrant
Deviating from what is normal or expected
artless
free of guile or pretense; naturally simple and sincere
capricious
Given to sudden and unaccountable changes of mood or behavior
circumspect
Wary and unwilling to take risks; cautious
complaisant
Willing to please others; obliging; agreeable
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