perversion

noun

per·​ver·​sion pər-ˈvər-zhən How to pronounce perversion (audio)
-shən
1
: the action of perverting : the condition of being perverted
2
: a perverted form
especially : an aberrant sexual practice or interest especially when habitual

Examples of perversion in a Sentence

They fought against perversion of the health-care system. claimed that rap and rock music were responsible for the perversion of the nation's young people
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
While the bad clown—a horror staple—might seem like a perversion of a wholesome form of entertainment historically meant for children, the clown in popular culture has always been subversive. Time, 30 Oct. 2025 After months marked by corruption, violence, and the open perversion of law, to gasp in outrage at the loss of a few tons of masonry and mortar might seem oddly misjudged. Adam Gopnik, New Yorker, 25 Oct. 2025 Empsall’s small church offers classes on Christian resistance to fascism and how to reject White Christian nationalism as a perversion of Christianity. Liam Adams, USA Today, 16 Sep. 2025 The rival player coach decries Ned’s perversion and demands the referee put a stop to his behavior. Vikram Murthi, IndieWire, 19 Aug. 2025 See All Example Sentences for perversion

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of perversion was in the 14th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Perversion.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/perversion. Accessed 1 Nov. 2025.

Kids Definition

perversion

noun
per·​ver·​sion pər-ˈvər-zhən How to pronounce perversion (audio)
1
a
: the action of perverting
b
: the state of being perverted
2
: abnormal sexual behavior

Medical Definition

perversion

noun
per·​ver·​sion pər-ˈvər-zhən, -shən How to pronounce perversion (audio)
1
: the action of perverting or the condition of being perverted
2
: an aberrant sexual practice or interest especially when habitual

More from Merriam-Webster on perversion

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