as in corruptible
open to improper influence and especially bribery
that judge is known for being venal and easily bought
Synonyms & Similar Words
Relevance
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
Example Sentences
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to
show current usage.
Read More
Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors.
Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of venal
But all along a toxic combination of venal Post Office management and a faulty computer system was to blame.
—
John Arlidge, airmail.news, 11 May 2024
Goldblum also starred as the Grandmaster in Thor: Ragnarok, another ruler whose venal pursuit of power is only matched by his own stupidity.
—Maureen Lee Lenker, EW.com, 23 Nov. 2024
The wager at the root of the story is designed to reflect the venal hollowness of the upper class.
—Daniel Fienberg, The Hollywood Reporter, 20 Nov. 2024
The press, the political class, and both major parties have proved to be sclerotic, venal, and shortsighted.
—The Editors, National Review, 4 July 2024
See All Example Sentences for venal
John Arlidge, airmail.news, 11 May 2024
Goldblum also starred as the Grandmaster in Thor: Ragnarok, another ruler whose venal pursuit of power is only matched by his own stupidity.
—Maureen Lee Lenker, EW.com, 23 Nov. 2024
The wager at the root of the story is designed to reflect the venal hollowness of the upper class.
—Daniel Fienberg, The Hollywood Reporter, 20 Nov. 2024
The press, the political class, and both major parties have proved to be sclerotic, venal, and shortsighted.
—The Editors, National Review, 4 July 2024
See All Example Sentences for venal
Cite this Entry
“Venal.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/venal. Accessed 23 Mar. 2025.
Copy CitationLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Share