ne·far·i·ous \nə̇ˈfa(a)rēəs, nēˈ-, -fer-, -fār-\adjective Etymology: Latin nefarius, from nefas crime, wrong, from ne- not + fas right, divine law; akin to Latin fari to speak : heinously or impiously wicked : detestable, iniquitous < nefarious schemes > < nefarious practice > < race prejudice is most nefarious on its politer levels — H.E.Clurman > Synonyms:see vicious