ENGLISH
REFERENCE

perverted

adj.
C1 Advanced US //pɝˈvɝtɪd// UK //pəvˈɜːtɪd// per·vert·ed Archaic Vulgar
Definition

adj. describing behavior that most people think is strange, wrong, or unnatural, especially regarding sex.

adj. deviating from what is considered normal or proper, particularly in a sexual context. Often used predicatively after linking verbs like 'be' or 'seem'.


SIMPLE

He has a perverted sense of humor.

CONTEXTUAL

The detective discovered a perverted collection of images hidden in the suspect's basement.

COMPLEX

The film was criticized for its perverted depiction of historical events, which many felt crossed the line from artistic license into gratuitous cruelty.

Origin

From pervert + -ed.

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

Usage

Often used as a participial adjective to describe people, thoughts, or actions; can also follow linking verbs.

Last updated May 7, 2026