Unrighteously

Part of speech: adverb

Definitions

1. In a way that demonstrates a lack of justice, ethicality, or morality
2. Performed without regard for fairness, justice, or moral rectitude
3. In a manner that shows disregard for ethical principles, fairness, or moral integrity

Etymology: "Unrighteously" is simply "unrighteous" with the adverbial ending "-ly" added to it. "Unrighteous" itself is built from "righteous" with the negating prefix "un-", so the word works in layers: the root "righteous" (from Old English "rihtwīs", "right-wise", meaning one who acts in accordance with what is right), then the negation "un-", then the adverbial "-ly", which turns the adjective into a description of how an action is done. The sense is therefore literal: an action carried out "in a not-right-wise manner." Because "righteous" in English came to carry a moral and religious weight, the negative form inherited that flavour, so "unrighteously" describes acting with moral wrongdoing rather than merely being mistaken or clumsy.

Synonyms: unjustly, immorally, wickedly, wrongfully, illegitimately

Antonyms: justly, righteously, fairly, legitimately, honestly