Ill-gotten

Ill-gotten describes something obtained through dishonest, illegal, or unethical means. It implies a lack of rightful ownership due to the way it was acquired. The term emphasizes the moral wrongfulness and the lack of legitimacy of the possession. It is frequently applied to wealth, possessions, or advantages acquired through deception, exploitation, theft, or corruption. The acquisition of something considered ill-gotten often carries societal stigma, legal repercussions, and can even be perceived as cursed, leading to misfortune for those who benefit from it. This term also encompasses the negative consequences and the ethical problems stemming from using something unjustly acquired, highlighting the importance of integrity and ethical behavior.

Ill-gotten meaning with examples

• The detective was determined to uncover the origin of the jewels, suspecting they were ill-gotten gains from a series of robberies. He meticulously tracked their provenance, seeking to connect them to the criminal mastermind. The evidence soon revealed a connection, proving the jewels' acquisition was through theft. The case became a moral battle, demonstrating the consequences of seeking wealth through illegal activities.
• Despite the promise of luxurious living, the family found the mansion to be a burden, recognizing it had been acquired through ill-gotten means. The father, accused of corporate fraud, built his fortune by manipulating stocks. Guilt weighed heavy on them, overshadowing the beauty of their home. Consequently, they made the decision to surrender their ill-gotten possessions, aiming to regain their honor.
• The activist campaigned against the corporation's practices, exposing their exploitation of workers and ill-gotten profits. She organized protests. The corporation was alleged to have used child labor and avoided taxes, obtaining a significant advantage over competitors through unethical tactics. The activist emphasized the importance of transparency and demanded that they rectify their business practices.
• The politician's downfall came when his lavish lifestyle was investigated, revealing his expensive taste was financed by ill-gotten bribes from construction companies. This led to his immediate impeachment. Investigations showed payments for favorable legislation. This unethical acquisition ultimately destroyed his career and tarnished his reputation. The media coverage fueled public outrage and cemented the idea that corruption is unacceptable.
• The pirate's chest was overflowing with treasure and artifacts, all considered to be ill-gotten from countless raids on merchant ships. His crew rejoiced at the loot, unaware of the inevitable consequences of the cursed possessions. They lived a life of luxury, but this proved short-lived, as they soon became plagued by internal conflicts and devastating storms, proving the proverb of reaping what you sow.

Ill-gotten Synonyms

corrupt, dishonest, exploited, fraudulent, illegitimate, stolen, tainted, unearned, unethical, unlawful

Ill-gotten Antonyms

deserved, earned, ethical, honest, lawful, legitimate

Ill-gotten Crossword Answers

5 Letters

DIRTY