wrongdoing

noun

wrong·​do·​ing ˈrȯŋ-ˌdü-iŋ 

1

: evil or improper behavior or action

cleared of any wrongdoing

2

: an instance of doing wrong

Synonyms of wrongdoing

• crime
• violation
• sin

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

The former congresswoman has consistently denied any wrongdoing and has entered a not guilty plea. — Anthony Man, Sun Sentinel, 17 July 2026

As with many large national companies, litigation does not necessarily establish liability or wrongdoing. — Adam Palasciano, USA Today, 17 July 2026

So when things go badly inside the opaque world of many private schools, it can be left to parents, police, journalists and amateur sleuths to find and expose wrongdoing. — Jennifer Smith Richards, ProPublica, 16 July 2026

The Clippers have consistently denied any wrongdoing regarding the investigation. — Broderick Turner, Los Angeles Times, 15 July 2026

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Legal Definition

wrongdoing

noun

wrong·​do·​ing ˈrȯŋ-ˌdü-iŋ 

: injurious, criminal, or improper behavior

denied any wrongdoing