moral turpitude

American  

noun

1. conduct that is regarded as immoral.

2. an instance of such conduct.

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Etymology

Origin of moral turpitude

First recorded in 1875–80

Example Sentences

Allegations against Valdovinos Ramirez included moral turpitude for misappropriation, misrepresentation, bounced checks, with additional charges for unreturned fees and not updating one client on important case events.

From Los Angeles Times • Oct. 22, 2024

The school said it terminated Tucker after he subjected the institution to ridicule, breaching his contract and moral turpitude.

From Seattle Times • Oct. 25, 2023

He also resigned as an MP, which meant the court did not decide whether his offence involved "moral turpitude" - a finding that would have barred him from running for office for seven years.

From BBC • Jan. 18, 2023

Senate, told The Associated Press he never expected the couple to be accused of moral turpitude before the state Supreme Court “for doing what we thought was right.”

From Washington Times • Feb. 8, 2022

“You accused me of moral turpitude, Mr. Marsden. I am here to say I am not guilty.”

From "Lyddie" by Katherine Paterson