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.
Brian Hooker has not been charged with any crime or accused of wrongdoing. — Kelsie Cairns, FOXNews.com, 2 July 2026 Le Pen has denied any wrongdoing and still hopes to mount a fourth bid for the presidency. — Sylvie Corbet, Los Angeles Times, 5 July 2026 Disney has denied the lawsuit’s claims and allegations of wrongdoing. — Tiago Ventura, Time, 2 July 2026 None of the companies admitted wrongdoing under the settlements. — Wyatte Grantham-Philips, Fortune, 2 July 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 7 Jul. 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

More from Merriam-Webster on wrongdoing

Nglish: Translation of wrongdoing for Spanish Speakers

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