per
ver
sely
1
in a way that shows a stubborn refusal to behave reasonably or accept what is right
- Despite the clear evidence, she perversely insisted that the earth was flat.
- He perversely refused to wear a helmet, even after seeing several accidents.
- The company perversely ignored safety warnings, risking employees' lives.
- The child perversely refused to eat anything but candy for dinner.
- They perversely rejected all offers of help, even when desperate.
2
in a manner that goes against what is usual, expected, or appropriate
- He was perversely proud of failing school, which surprised everyone.
- The politician perversely gained support by opposing popular reforms.
- She perversely found comfort in chaos, unlike most people who seek order.
- The artist's perversely traditional style attracted a modern audience.
- They perversely celebrated the loss as a step forward, though most saw it as a setback.