psychopathy

noun

psy·​chop·​a·​thy sī-ˈkä-pə-thē How to pronounce psychopathy (audio)
plural psychopathies
: mental disorder especially when marked by egocentric and antisocial activity, a lack of remorse for one's actions, an absence of empathy for others, and often criminal tendencies

Examples of psychopathy in a Sentence

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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.
The early identification of psychopathy can potentially prevent an escalation of antisocial behavior. — David Dematteo, The Conversation, 20 Oct. 2026 His unadulterated psychopathy led to some of the most fascinating and brutal moments across this season and the next. — Declan Gallagher, Entertainment Weekly, 4 Oct. 2026 The article notes the overlap between emotional intelligence and psychopathy; while EQ is lauded, psychopathic traits can surprisingly predict career success due to charm and appearing calm under pressure. — Tomas Chamorro-Premuzic, Forbes.com, 29 Aug. 2026 Appearing out of nowhere, with the kind of wide eyes that could suggest innocence or psychopathy, Dale’s shadow (eventually christened Dilly Dally and played by Natasha Roland) knows nothing and opens the door to everything. — Sara Holdren, Vulture, 14 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for psychopathy

Word History

Etymology

International Scientific Vocabulary

First Known Use

1847, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of psychopathy was in 1847

Rhymes for psychopathy

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Browse Nearby Words

psychopathology
psychopathy
psychopharmacology
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Cite this Entry

“Psychopathy.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/psychopathy. Accessed 27 Oct. 2026.

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Medical Definition

psychopathy

noun
psy·​chop·​a·​thy sī-ˈkäp-ə-thē How to pronounce psychopathy (audio)
plural psychopathies
1
: mental disorder especially when marked by egocentric and antisocial activity, a lack of remorse for one's actions, an absence of empathy for others, and criminal tendencies
2
especially formerly : antisocial personality
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