vice Definition

vice¹
vise
noun

1. A tool with heavy movable metal jaws, usually fixed to a bench, for gripping an object being worked on.

Etymology: 15c: French vis screw.

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vice²
noun

1. A habit or activity considered immoral, evil or depraved, especially involving prostitution or drugs.

Thesaurus: sin, evil, defect, depravity, failing, fault, weakness; Antonym: virtue.
2. Such activities collectively.
3. A bad habit; a fault in one's character.

Etymology: 13c: French, from Latin vitium blemish.

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vice³
prep

1. In place of.
2. Following on from or succeeding.

Etymology: 18c: Latin, meaning ‘by turn'.