perversion

Pronunciation: /pərˈvɜrʒən/ (American English)

Origin: Late Middle English, from Latin perversio(n-), from the verb pervertere 'to overturn, corrupt'

Meanings:

1. The alteration of something from its original course, meaning, or state to a distortion or corruption of what was first intended.
2. Sexual behavior or desire that is considered abnormal or unacceptable.
3. A perverted form of something.

Example Sentences:

1. The perversion of justice in this case is a clear violation of human rights.
2. Some argue that certain forms of censorship are a perversion of free speech.
3. The psychologist specialized in treating patients with various sexual perversions.

Related Words:

• Verb: pervert
• Adjective: perverse
• Adverb: perversely
• Noun: perversity

Synonyms: distortion, corruption, subversion, deviation, aberration

Memorizable Tricks:

• Think of "per-VERSION" as a "twisted VERSION" of something, helping you remember its meaning of distortion or alteration.
• The "per-" prefix often indicates "through" or "thoroughly," so perversion can be thought of as something thoroughly turned or twisted from its original state.