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Nefarious
Very wicked; infamous
adjective💡
Imagine This
The vampire is notoriously known as a wicked character.
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Sounds Like
neh-FAIR-ee-uhs
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Looks Like
Looks like 'infamous' in meaning; visually resembles other -ous adjectives and starts with nef-
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Remember This
Al Capone, the Mafia, was the most notorious criminal in U.S. history.
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Other Forms
nefariouslyadverb
nefariousnessnoun
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Connect With
infamous, villainous, wicked, heinous, felonious
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Note
Use nefarious to describe actions or people that are wicked or criminal. It often implies wrongdoing that is morally wrong or illegal, not merely unkind. It is not interchangeable with 'famous'. Its close relative 'notorious' describes being well known for a bad quality or deed, while 'nefarious' emphasizes wickedness or criminality.
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Study Deeper
Examples
- The dictator's nefarious schemes were uncovered by investigators.
- The company's nefarious practices included bribery and embezzlement.
Synonyms
villainousheinousfeloniousevilcriminal
Antonyms
virtuoushonorablelawful
Etymology
From Latin nefarius meaning wicked or impious, from ne- (not) + fas (divine law). The term entered English in the 15th century, often via French.
Mnemonic
Mnemonic: NEFAR-ious sounds like 'never fair'—someone who acts nefariously is never fair.
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Unequivocal
adjectiveLeaving no doubt; clear, definite, and unambiguous; having a single, indisputable interpretation.
Connoisseur
nounA person with expert knowledge and refined taste in a particular field, especially in arts, cuisine, or wine; a discerning judge of quality.
Predilection
nounA preference or special liking for something; a natural inclination.
Similar Words
Related words and words with the same part of speech.
Infamous
adjectiveWell known for a negative reason; having a bad reputation.
Abstruse
adjectiveDifficult to understand; obscure or highly complex.
Accidental
adjectiveHappening by chance or without deliberate planning; not intended. In music, it is also a noun for a symbol that temporarily alters a pitch.
Acerbic
adjectiveSharp or biting in tone or taste; caustic or mordant in manner.
Acquiescent
adjectiveReady to agree or approve without protest; compliant.
Adamant
adjectiveRigid in opinion or purpose; not willing to change one's mind or position.
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