Nefarious — Meaning, Definition & Synonyms

adjective /ni-ˈfer-ē-əs/ ne·far·i·ous

Meaning & Definition of Nefarious

Nefarious (adjective)

  1. flagrantly wicked or corrupt, evil

Nefarious (adjective) — Senses, Synonyms & Antonyms

  1. not conforming to a high moral standard; morally unacceptable

    "the chaste heroines and nefarious villains of old-time melodramas"

Synonyms, Thesaurus & Another Word for Nefarious

The most common words with a similar meaning to Nefarious:

Antonyms & Opposite Words for Nefarious

Words with the opposite meaning of Nefarious:

Near Antonyms of Nefarious

Word Forms of Nefarious

Derived words: nefariously (adverb)

Origin & Etymology of Nefarious

Latin nefarius, from nefas crime, from ne- not + fas right, divine law; perhaps akin to Greek themis law, tithenai to place do

First known use: 1567

Frequently Asked Questions about Nefarious

What does "Nefarious" mean?

"Nefarious" means flagrantly wicked or corrupt, evil. As an adjective, it is defined as: flagrantly wicked or corrupt, evil.

What is another word for "Nefarious"?

Other words for "Nefarious" include bad, dark, evil, immoral, iniquitous, rotten, sinful and unethical. The best synonym depends on which meaning of "Nefarious" you intend.

What are different ways to say "Nefarious"?

There are 95 words and phrases with a similar meaning to "Nefarious". Common alternatives include bad, dark, evil, immoral, iniquitous, rotten, sinful, unethical, unlawful and unrighteous.

What is the opposite of "Nefarious"?

Antonyms of "Nefarious" include decent, ethical, good, honest, honorable, just, moral and right. Near antonyms include elevated, high, high-minded and law-abiding.

How do you use "Nefarious" in a sentence?

Examples of "Nefarious" in a sentence: "the chaste heroines and nefarious villains of old-time melodramas".

Is "Nefarious" a noun, verb, or adjective?

"Nefarious" is an adjective.

How do you pronounce "Nefarious"?

"Nefarious" is pronounced /ni-ˈfer-ē-əs/ and divided into syllables as ne·far·i·ous.

What is the origin of the word "Nefarious"?

"Nefarious" comes from Latin nefarius, from nefas crime, from ne- not + fas right, divine law; perhaps akin to Greek themis law, tithenai to place do. First known use: 1567.