To change something from its proper use or meaning into something bad or wrong.
From Latin 'pervertere' (per- meaning thoroughly + vertere meaning to turn). Originally meant to turn around or reverse, then evolved to mean to corrupt or misuse.
The word 'pervert' has a completely different meaning when it's a verb versus a noun, and that shift in English happened because we started using it to describe actions rather than people—'he perverts the truth' is very different from calling someone a pervert.
Perversion language, particularly around sexuality and gender non-conformity, has been weaponized against LGBTQ+ communities and women's sexuality; the term carries that violent history.
Restrict to clinical contexts; avoid as judgment of consensual sexuality or gender expression. Be explicit about harm (abuse, non-consent) vs. difference.
["offender (if there is actual harm)","person with non-standard sexuality (descriptive, neutral)"]
Reclamation of 'pervert' by queer/feminist communities; respect community choice of language while remaining critical of weaponized usage.
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