Langimage
English

vice

|vice|

B2

/vaɪs/

moral fault or tool

Etymology
Etymology Information

'vice' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'vitium,' where 'vitium' meant 'fault or defect.'

Historical Evolution

'vitium' transformed into the Old French word 'vice,' and eventually became the modern English word 'vice' through Middle English.

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'fault or defect,' but over time it evolved into its current meanings of 'moral fault' and 'tool for holding work.'

Meanings by Part of Speech

Noun 1

a moral fault or weakness in someone's character.

Gambling was his only vice.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Noun 2

a tool with two jaws for holding work in place, usually attached to a workbench.

He tightened the vice to hold the wood securely.

Synonyms

Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:40