wrongdoing

noun

wrong·​do·​ing ˈrȯŋ-ˌdü-iŋ How to pronounce wrongdoing (audio)
Synonyms of wrongdoingnext
1
: evil or improper behavior or action
cleared of any wrongdoing
2
: an instance of doing wrong

Synonyms of wrongdoing

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Examples of wrongdoing in a Sentence

The corporation's wrongdoings must be exposed. a local newspaper exposed the contractor's elaborate attempts to cover up his wrongdoings
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.
The presence of anyone’s name or image in the files isn’t proof of wrongdoing. — Danica Kirka, Los Angeles Times, 31 Oct. 2026 The students on Thursday asked public servants to prevent outgoing officials from destroying documentation or evidence of potential wrongdoing. — Arkansas Online, 30 Oct. 2026 Mountbatten-Windsor has vehemently denied any and all wrongdoing in his dealings with Epstein. — Issy Ronald, CNN Money, 30 Oct. 2026 In a statement, the Port of Barcelona said it was required to correct the payroll discrepancies identified in the government audit but maintained that the issue was not the result of wrongdoing by the port, according to local broadcaster betevé. — Andrea Margolis, FOXNews.com, 29 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for wrongdoing

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

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

Browse Nearby Words

wrongdoer
wrongdoing
wronged
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Cite this Entry

“Wrongdoing.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/wrongdoing. Accessed 1 Nov. 2026.

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Legal Definition

wrongdoing

noun
wrong·​do·​ing ˈrȯŋ-ˌdü-iŋ How to pronounce wrongdoing (audio)
: injurious, criminal, or improper behavior
denied any wrongdoing
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