criminality

noun

crim·​i·​nal·​i·​ty ˌkri-mə-ˈna-lə-tē How to pronounce criminality (audio)
Synonyms of criminalitynext
1
: the quality or state of being criminal
2
: criminal activity
urban criminality

Synonyms of criminality

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Examples of criminality in a Sentence

a report on the drop in criminality in large urban centers
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Election experts have said many instances of noncitizens registering to vote are a result of administrative error or confusion on the part of the immigrant — not intentional criminality. — Kevin Rector, Los Angeles Times, 20 Oct. 2026 Investigators, however, believe there was no criminality and that the cause was an electrical fire in one of the fifth-floor apartments. — Julian Roberts-Grmela, New York Daily News, 17 Oct. 2026 Van Houten ultimately determined the allegations did not warrant charges because of a lack of criminality. — Marlene Lenthang, NBC news, 5 Oct. 2026 Law enforcement officials are investigating, but the NYPD said there is no criminality at this time. — Alexa Herrera, CBS News, 5 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for criminality

Word History

Etymology

criminal entry 1 + -ity, perhaps after French criminalité

First Known Use

1611, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of criminality was in 1611

Rhymes for criminality

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Browse Nearby Words

criminalistics
criminality
criminalize
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Cite this Entry

“Criminality.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/criminality. Accessed 27 Oct. 2026.

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Legal Definition

criminality

noun
crim·​i·​nal·​i·​ty ˌkri-mə-ˈna-lə-tē How to pronounce criminality (audio)
1
: the quality or state of being criminal
can't understand the criminality of his act
2
: crime sense 3
violent criminality
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