WordLens

perversely

1 of 1adverb
/pərˈvɝsli/
1

in a way that shows a stubborn refusal to behave reasonably or accept what is right

  • Despite the clear evidence, she perversely insisted that the earth was flat.
  • He perversely refused to wear a helmet, even after seeing several accidents.
  • The company perversely ignored safety warnings, risking employees' lives.
  • The child perversely refused to eat anything but candy for dinner.
  • They perversely rejected all offers of help, even when desperate.
2

in a manner that goes against what is usual, expected, or appropriate

  • He was perversely proud of failing school, which surprised everyone.
  • The politician perversely gained support by opposing popular reforms.
  • She perversely found comfort in chaos, unlike most people who seek order.
  • The artist's perversely traditional style attracted a modern audience.
  • They perversely celebrated the loss as a step forward, though most saw it as a setback.