Definition of culprit
1
: one accused of or charged with a crime
The culprit pleaded "not guilty."
2
: one guilty of a crime or a fault
The culprit expressed remorse at his sentencing.
3
: the source or cause of a problem
Lack of exercise and poor diet are the main culprits in heart disease.
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Merriam-Webster unabridged
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Time Traveler for culprit
The first known use of culprit was in 1678
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