English · Culture & Society
corruption
/kəˈrʌp.ʃən/
[/kəˈrʌp.ʃən/]
dishonest abuse of power
Intermediatenoun
Definition
Dishonest or illegal behavior, especially by people in power, such as taking bribes. It can also mean the process of being made morally rotten.
Example
Widespread corruption meant that public money meant for schools ended up in private pockets.
Widespread corruption meant that public money meant for schools ended up in private pockets.
Etymology
From Latin 'corruptio', from 'corrumpere' (to destroy, spoil), from 'cor-' and 'rumpere' (to break).
How & Where It’s Used
Used in politics, business, and ethics.