corrupt

Reading level: hard

Estimated CEFR level: B2 — Upper-Intermediate

Estimated from word frequency; not an official CEFR classification.

Definition

  1. verb corrupt morally or by intemperance or sensuality
  2. verb make illegal payments to in exchange for favors or influence
  3. verb place under suspicion or cast doubt upon

Etymology

From Middle English corrupten, derived from Latin corruptus, past participle of corrumpō (“to destroy, ruin, injure, spoil, corrupt, bribe”), from com- (“together”) + rumpō (“to break in pieces”).

In classic literature

Synonyms

pervert, subvert, demoralize, demoralise, debauch, debase, profane, vitiate, deprave, misdirect

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