Den of iniquity
Meaning
A "den of iniquity" is a place notorious for immoral, corrupt, or wicked behavior and activities.
Origin
The imagery of a "den" evokes a hidden, often dangerous lair where wild animals seek refuge, a place of concealment and base instincts. This primal metaphor was paired with "iniquity," a word deeply rooted in ancient religious texts, particularly the Bible, where it signifies profound wickedness, sin, and moral corruption. The phrase evolved to describe any secluded place where vice flourished unchecked, a metaphorical refuge not for beasts, but for human depravity. It painted a vivid picture of a hidden sanctuary where society's moral boundaries were not just bent, but utterly abandoned, a secret haven for every kind of sinful act.
Examples
- The old abandoned warehouse behind the docks became a den of iniquity where illegal card games and other illicit dealings took place.
- Local authorities finally shut down the bar, which had long been suspected of operating as a den of iniquity for various criminal enterprises.