English Reference
Noun

pervert

n. countable
C2 Proficiency US /ˈpɝvɝt/ per·vert UK spelling perverting, perverts

n.someone whose sexual behavior is considered strange, unpleasant, or not normal by most people. It is a very strong and insulting word used to judge others.

n.a person whose sexual behavior or desires are regarded as abnormal or unacceptable by societal standards. Often carries a highly pejorative or offensive tone in modern usage.


SIMPLE

He was labeled a pervert after his behavior in the park.

CONTEXTUAL

The tabloid newspapers often use the word pervert to describe individuals involved in sexual scandals to provoke public outrage.

Usage

Highly offensive and judgmental; typically used as a derogatory label rather than a neutral description.

The four Slovakian nationals have been charged with murder, causing or allowing the death of a child and perverting the course of justice by taking steps to conceal the killing of an infant.

BBC News· 2 Sept 2026

Dubbed “pervert glasses” by some, there are reports of women being filmed without their consent and their interactions with a glasses-wearing influencer posted on social media.

The Guardian· 30 Aug 2026

From Old French pervertir, itself from the Latin pervertō.

Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.

This entry
Origin Latin pervertō
Level C2 · Proficiency
Frequency Frequent
Updated