venal

[ veen-l ]

Part of Speech adjective

Origin + Etymology

Mid 17th century; Latin (in the sense ‘available for purchase’, referring to merchandise or a favor): from Latin venalis, from venum ‘thing for sale’

Synonyms

amoral
corrupt
crooked

Antonyms

ethical
good
honest

Definition

willing to sell one's influence, especially in return for a bribe; open to bribery; mercenary

Example

He could tell the officer was a venal man so he decided he would try to use money to get out of his punishment.

Usage Over Time

#uncommon

Usage Over Time

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[ ak-wee-es ]

to assent tacitly; submit or comply silently or without protest; agree; consent