1. the quality or state of being extremely wicked or villainous
Usage: formal

Examples

• The nefariousness of the dictator’s crimes shocked the international community.
• She was appalled by the nefariousness of the scheme to defraud elderly citizens.
• The novel explores the nefariousness lurking beneath the town’s peaceful facade.
• His nefariousness became apparent when the full extent of his betrayal was revealed.
• The prosecutor emphasized the nefariousness of the defendant’s actions.
• The documentary exposed the nefariousness of the corrupt business practices.