# sleaze

/ˈsɫiz/ (US) · /slˈiːz/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/sleaze
Updated: 2026-10-17

## Definition

dishonest or immoral behaviour, especially by politicians or business people who use power in a dirty way.

For teachers: corrupt, dishonest or sexually immoral behaviour or atmosphere, especially linked to politics, business or the media.

## Examples

- Voters are tired of sleaze in politics.
- The newspaper exposed sleaze at city hall after officials took free holidays from builders.
- The campaign promised to clean up the sleaze that had settled over the council like damp, with backroom deals and quiet favours shaping every planning decision.

## Synonyms

corruption, dishonesty, misconduct, wrongdoing, immorality

## Antonyms

honesty, integrity, morality

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.