original sin

noun

1
: the state of sin that according to Christian theology characterizes all human beings as a result of Adam's fall
2
: a wrong of great magnitude
the original sin of slavery

Examples of original sin in a Sentence

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.
John Steinbeck wrote Cathy Ames, the antagonist of his novel East of Eden, as the embodiment of original sin, and in Zoe Kazan’s Netflix adaptation, Florence Pugh deftly channels the character’s ambition and cynicism. — Roxana Hadadi, Vulture, 16 Oct. 2026 This time, Russ does the opposite of his original sin and holds onto the ball. — Angelique Jackson, Variety, 16 Oct. 2026 It’s often said that the original sin of the United States was slavery. — Daniel Immerwahr, New Yorker, 28 Sep. 2026 One of Odysseus’ defining triumphs becomes, in Nolan’s telling, something closer to an original sin. — Los Angeles Times, 21 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for original sin

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of original sin was in the 14th century

Rhymes for original sin

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Browse Nearby Words

original process
original sin
originant
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Cite this Entry

“Original sin.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/original%20sin. Accessed 27 Oct. 2026.

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Kids Definition

original sin

noun
1
: the state of sin that according to Christian teaching all people are born in as a result of Adam's sin in Eden
2
: a very great and significant wrong
the original sin of slavery

More from Merriam-Webster on original sin

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about original sin

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