(VUR-choo-us), adjective
Having or characterized by righteousness or moral virtue.
exemplary (ig-ZEM-pluh-ree). Serving as an example or model; worth imitating by others.
William’s EXEMPLARY behavior was repeated so frequently and embellished so enthusiastically, that the rest of us eventually turned to a life of crime.
inculpable (in-KUHL-puh-buhl). Blameless; guiltless.
Because John wasn’t at the drinking party, he was deemed INCULPABLE.
seraphic (si-RAF-ik). Characteristic of a seraph; angelic.
Underneath her SERAPHIC appearance, Marjorie actually had a heart of gold.
probity (PROH-bi-tee). Integrity; uprightness in one’s dealings with others; complete honesty.
The new parents were convinced that by setting a good example, their child would grow up to embrace the virtues of cleanliness and PROBITY.
rectitude (REHK-ti-tood). Conduct according to moral principles; moral virtue; strict honesty; rightness.
“The mind that’s conscious of its RECTITUDE, / Laughs at the lies of rumor.”
—Ovid, Roman poet
veracious (vuh-RAY-shuss). Honest; truthful.
Your Honor, I ask that the defense’s assertion that none of the prosecution’s witnesses are VERACIOUS be stricken from the record.
nefarious (nih-FARE-ee-us). Inherently evil, malicious, and unjust.
“Only a government that is rich and safe can afford to be a democracy, for democracy is the most expensive and NEFARIOUS kind of government ever heard of on earth.”
—Mark Twain, American humorist and writer
peccadillo (pek-uh-DIL-oh). A slight offence; trifling fault, indiscretion.
Bob knew that shoplifting the package of gum was just a PECCADILLO, but his secret tormented him for his entire adult life.