venial sin

noun

1

: a sin that is relatively slight or that is committed without full reflection or consent and so according to Thomist theology does not deprive the soul of sanctifying grace compare mortal sin

2

: a minor offense

Examples of venial sin in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Indeed, his first exposure to one of his favorites, Raiders of the Lost Ark, probably included committing a venial sin. —Jordan Hoffman, EW.com, 5 June 2025

Rose’s reinstatement meant he’ll likely be elected posthumously, while Jackson might still be on the outside looking in if the voting committee believes his alleged crime was a mortal sin and Rose’s betting on baseball was a venial sin. —Paul Sullivan, Chicago Tribune, 14 May 2025

In the corrupt world of college football, sign stealing is a venial sin. —Nick Canepa, San Diego Union-Tribune, 6 Jan. 2024

Now it’s considered a venial sin at worst. —Paul Sullivan, chicagotribune.com, 19 May 2021

My reservations have little to do with standard criticisms like awkward performances or clunky production values — venial sins, surely, for new filmmakers trying to find their way. —Justin Chang, latimes.com, 30 Mar. 2018

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for venial sin

• aneurin
• crystallin
• eosin
• mandolin
• porphyrin
• underpin
• violin
• akin
• auxin
• buckskin
• chagrin
• deerskin