vitiate
verb
To spoil or impair the quality or efficiency of something; to destroy or impair the legal validity of something.
Etymology
From Latin "vitiatus," past participle of "vitiare" (to injure, spoil), from "vitium" (fault, defect). The same root gives us "vice" and "vicious."
Examples in Use
- 1.
"A single procedural error vitiated the entire contract."
- 2.
"Corruption had vitiated the electoral process."
- 3.
"The tainted evidence vitiated the prosecution's case."
Related Vocabulary
Synonyms
Related Words
Fun Fact
In contract law, certain errors or acts can "vitiate" agreements, making them void. Misrepresentation, duress, and undue influence are grounds that vitiate consent and free parties from obligations.
Word Game Tips
Letters: 7 letters (V, I, T, I, A, T, E)
Scrabble Value: 10 points
Tip: Try building from common prefixes or suffixes when you spot these letters.
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