improbus

Improbus is a Latin adjective meaning wicked, bad, or unprincipled. It can describe a person's character, actions, or even things that are considered morally wrong or harmful. The term carries a strong sense of deliberate wrongdoing, suggesting a person who is not merely mistaken but actively chooses to behave in a way that is considered evil or unjust.

In ancient Roman literature, improbus was frequently used to condemn antagonists or to describe behavior that deviated from societal norms and ethical standards. It could refer to a range of vices, including cruelty, deceit, and avarice. The concept of improbus often stood in contrast to virtues such as probitas (uprightness or honesty).

The root of improbus is "probus," meaning good or upright. The prefix "im-" negates this, creating the sense of being the opposite of good. Therefore, improbus signifies a fundamental lack of moral integrity. Its usage highlights a moral judgment, indicating that something or someone is not just flawed but actively bad or wicked. The word's historical context reveals a clear framework for understanding moral failings within Roman society.