incorruptibility

In short—which is the strongest proof that can be given of the excellence of her heart, and the incorruptibility of her honour, she, at eighteen, was as spotless a character at Little Hockley, as the most innocent inhabitant of her age and sex could be at Castlewick.

1793, Charles Dibdin, chapter 8, in The Younger Brother, volume 2, page 85

In South Africa men are proud of their Judges, because they believe they are incorruptible. Even the black men have faith in them, though they do not always have faith in the Law. In a land of fear this incorruptibility is like a lamp set upon a stand, giving light to all that are in the house.

1948, Alan Paton, chapter 22, in Cry, the Beloved Country, New York: Scribner, page 158

1618, Anonymous translator, A Manuall of Devout Meditations and Exercises by Tomás de Villacastín, Book 3, Meditation 12, Point 1, p. 510, facsimile reprint in D. M. Rogers (editor), English Recusant Literature, 1558-1640, Volume 326, Menston: The Scolar Press, 1976, Gather hence great joy at the Resurrection of the B. Virgin, and the incorruptibility of her body, the rare and speciall priviledge graunted unto her by her most holy Son, who fullfilled the desires of her soule.

The PEACOCK, in ancient times, was possessed of a mystic character. The fabled incorruptibility of its flesh led to its typifying the Resurrection; and from this incorruptibility, doubtless, originated the first idea of swearing “by the Peacock,” an oath that was to be inviolably kept.

1867, Jacob Larwood, John Camden Hotten, The History of Signboards, London: Chatto & Windus