transgression

noun

trans·​gres·​sion tran(t)s-ˈgre-shən How to pronounce transgression (audio)
tranz-
: an act, process, or instance of transgressing: such as
a
: infringement or violation of a law, command, or duty
b
: the spread of the sea over land areas and the consequent unconformable deposit of sediments on older rocks

Examples of transgression in a Sentence

acts that are transgressions against the laws of civilized societies everywhere a dying woman asking for divine forgiveness for a lifetime of transgressions
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.
However, Johnson remains confident that the legislation will help the country shift away from past transgressions. Ashleigh Fields, The Hill, 1 June 2025 Companies that suddenly change their policies around return-to-office, for example, lead their workers to feel a sense of betrayal and transgression. Lindsay Phillips, Forbes.com, 22 May 2025 Especially not someone like Rose, whose transgressions went far beyond the playing field and included everything from a tax evasion conviction to an extramarital affair with a teenager. Mac Cerullo, Boston Herald, 18 May 2025 Like Carl, Akram crosses lines, though his transgressions are fueled by expediency rather than temper. Judy Berman, Time, 29 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for transgression

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

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

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Transgression.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/transgression. Accessed 6 Jul. 2025.

Kids Definition

transgression

noun
trans·​gres·​sion tran(t)s-ˈgresh-ən How to pronounce transgression (audio)
tranz-
: an act, process, or example of transgressing

More from Merriam-Webster on transgression

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