vice
//vaɪs//
Noun
viceSingular
vicesPlural
1
Immoral or wicked behavior; a bad habit or personal failing.
Gambling became his worst vice.
2
Criminal activities involving prostitution, pornography, or drugs.
The police department has a special vice unit that investigates illegal drug operations.
Noun
viceSingular
vicesPlural
1
A metal tool with movable jaws used to hold an object firmly in place while work is done on it.
He clamped the piece of wood in the vice before sawing it.
Synonym
Preposition
1
In place of; as a substitute for.
Ms. Smith will attend the meeting vice Mr. Johnson, who is on leave.