1. marked by a disposition to oppose and contradict (Freq. 2) - took perverse satisfaction in foiling her plans • Similar to: negative • Derivationally related forms: perverseness 2. deviating from what is considered moral or right or proper or good - depraved criminals - a perverted sense of loyalty - the reprobate conduct of a gambling aristocrat • Syn: depraved, perverted, reprobate • Similar to: corrupt • Derivationally related forms: reprobate (for: reprobate), perverseness, perversity, depravity (for: depraved) 3. resistant to guidance or discipline - Mary Mary quite contrary - an obstinate child with a violent temper - a perverse mood - wayward behavior • Syn: contrary, obstinate, wayward • Similar to: disobedient • Derivationally related forms: perverseness, perversity, contrariness (for: contrary)
