Synonyms of perversion

perversion

noun

pər-ˈvər-zhən 

1

as in degradation

a sinking to a state of low moral standards and behavior

claimed that rap and rock music were responsible for the perversion of the nation's young people

Synonyms & Similar Words

• degradation
• corruption
• corruptness
• dissoluteness
• debasement
• turpitude
• abjection
• decadence
• degeneracy
• sinfulness
• depravity
• demoralization
• libertinage
• dissipation
• libertinism
• decadency
• evil
• debauchery
• degeneration
• rakishness
• pervertedness
• immorality
• villainy
• wickedness
• degenerateness
• dissipatedness
• filth
• squalor
• gangrene
• rot

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• virtue
• morality
• goodness
• righteousness

2

as in misuse

incorrect or improper use

if there's a hidden charge for the service, then that's a perversion of the word "free"

Synonyms & Similar Words

• misuse
• abuse
• misapplication
• destruction
• wrecking
• misusage
• corruption
• misemployment
• mismanagement
• misutilization
• spoiling
• mistreatment
• mishandling
• prostitution
• maltreatment
• debasement
• ill-treatment
• profanation
• desecration
• damage
• ill-usage
• ruin
• mismanaging

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• use
• application
• employment
• utilization

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of perversion

This garish cavalcade of perversions, which just premiered at the Berlin Film Festival, should have been shocking and transgressive; the pieces are certainly there. — Bilge Ebiri, Vulture, 15 Feb. 2026

According to Jackson, that is a perversion of the law. — Peter D'abrosca, FOXNews.com, 26 Jan. 2026

Those who place responsibility on individuals and employers saw the ACA as perversion of the government’s purpose. — Robert Applebaum, The Conversation, 19 Dec. 2025

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