Filthy lucre

Origin

The phrase "filthy lucre" is a direct translation from the King James Bible, appearing notably in Paul's First Epistle to Timothy (1 Timothy 3:3) and Titus (Titus 1:7). In these texts, it describes ill-gotten gain, condemning those who are "greedy of filthy lucre." The word "lucre" itself derives from the Latin lucrum, meaning profit or gain. When combined with "filthy," the phrase creates a potent condemnation of wealth acquired through corrupt, dishonest, or morally reprehensible methods, ensuring its place in the English lexicon as a vivid descriptor for money that taints its holder.