Definition for Reprobate

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Meaning

A person of thoroughly bad character.

Sentence

Finally, on the verge of physical and financial ruin, the reprobate dropped his lowlife friends, joined AA, and begged his wife to come back.

Commentary

Reprobate (which includes the prefix re-, "back of backward") is often said in a tone of joshing affection. The related verb reprove or "scold," since the reprobate deserves a constant scolding. Shakespeare's great character Falstaff - a lazy, lying, boastful, sponging drunkard - is the model of an old reprobate.