The spelling of the word "perversity" may seem a bit confusing due to its pronunciation. The IPA phonetic transcription for this word is /pərˈvɜːrsəti/. The "p" in the beginning is silent, making the first syllable pronounced as "per". The "e" in the second syllable is pronounced as "ə", which is the schwa sound. The "y" in the third syllable is pronounced as "ɜːr", and the last syllable is pronounced as "səti". Despite its tricky pronunciation, perversity denotes a deliberate desire to behave in an unreasonable or unacceptable way.
Perversity is a noun that refers to the quality or state of being perverse. Perversity can be understood as an inclination or tendency to deliberately act in a way that is contrary to what is considered normal, reasonable, or morally acceptable. It implies a deliberate defiance or resistance towards expectations, standards, or conventions.
Often associated with willfully deviant or inappropriate behavior, perversity can manifest in various forms. This includes embracing ideas, attitudes, or actions that are deliberately contrary to societal norms or expectations. Perversity can also be exhibited through an active desire to cause trouble, discomfort, or annoyance to others. It can involve exhibiting unconventional or unconventional sexual preferences or interests that are not shared or understood by the majority of the population.
Perversity is not limited to individual behavior; it can also extend to literary, artistic, or other creative works. In this context, it refers to the deliberate inversion or subversion of traditional or expected norms. For instance, a writer may employ perversity in their storytelling by deliberately creating morally ambiguous characters or depicting their narrative in a non-linear structure, challenging the reader's expectations.
Though perversity generally carries a negative connotation due to its association with social taboos or immorality, it is important to note that perceptions of what is perverse can vary across societies and cultures.
• Perverseness.
• The state of being perverse; disposition to thwart or cross.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "perversity" comes from the Latin "perversus", which is the past participle of the verb "pervertere". "Pervertere" is derived from the combination of the prefix "per-" (meaning "thoroughly" or "completely") and the verb "vertere" (meaning "to turn"). Therefore, "perversity" ultimately translates to "thoroughly turned", suggesting a deviation from what is considered normal or appropriate behavior.