Definition of vile

The origin of the word "vile" can be traced back to the Old French language, specifically the word "vil," meaning "lowly" or "common." This word was borrowed from the Latin word "vilis," which itself derived from the Indo-European root "vel," meaning "weak" or "worthless." In the Middle English period (around the 14th century), "vil" was used to denote someone of low social status or service. Later, during the 16th century, the spelling changed to "vyle," and the meaning expanded to include something repulsive, disgusting, or abominable. By the 17th century, "vile" had taken on its modern meaning, implying a strong negative connotation. It came to be used as an intensifier for words conveying moral worthlessness, such as "evil" or "wicked." Today, "vile" is a fairly straightforward English word, connoting something despicable, repulsive, or repugnant.