Definitions

vile

[vahyl] / vaɪl /

ADJECTIVE

offensive, horrible

Synonyms

STRONGEST

appalling contemptible depraved despicable disgraceful disgusting horrid humiliating immoral miserable nasty noxious repugnant repulsive revolting shocking sleazy ugly vicious vulgar

WEAK

abandoned abject bad base coarse corrupt debased degenerate dirty evil filthy foul ignoble impure iniquitous loathsome low mean nauseating nefarious perverted repellent sickening sinful stinking wicked worthless wretched

Antonyms

STRONGEST

agreeable attractive comforting decent desirous friendly gentle good happy helpful honorable kind moral nice noble pleasant pleasing pure respectable right safe uncorrupt virtuous worthy

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

And it could get bitterly personal and utterly vile very quickly.

From BBC • Mar. 7, 2026

Mr. Rachel’s detailed juxtaposition of this voyeurism with the vile historical facts exposes the young musicians’ ignorance and crassness.

From The Wall Street Journal • Feb. 25, 2026

“Today’s lawsuit underscores that this Department of Justice stands strong against hate and antisemitism in all its vile forms.”

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 24, 2026

"Today's lawsuit underscores that this Department of Justice stands strong against hate and antisemitism in all its vile forms," Bondi said in a statement.

From Barron's • Feb. 24, 2026

For a few moments, Peeta and I take in the scene of our mentor trying to rise out of the slippery vile stuff from his stomach.

From "The Hunger Games" by Suzanne Collins

Vocabulary lists containing vile

100 Words to Make You Sound Smart

Looking to grow your vocabulary? Check out this interactive, curated word list from our team of English language specialists at Vocabulary.com – one of over 17,000 lists we've built to help learners worldwide!

"The Crucible" -- Vocabulary from all 4 Acts

Interested in learning more words like this one? Our team at Vocabulary.com has got you covered! You can review flashcards, quiz yourself, practice spelling, and more – and it's all completely free to use!

"Romeo and Juliet" by William Shakespeare, Act III

Want to remember this word for good? Start your learning journey today with our library of interactive, themed word lists built by the experts at Vocabulary.com – we'll help you make the most of your study time!