wrongdoing

noun

wrong·​do·​ing ˈrȯŋ-ˌdü-iŋ How to pronounce wrongdoing (audio)
1
: evil or improper behavior or action
cleared of any wrongdoing
2
: an instance of doing wrong

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.
Trump denied all wrongdoing in both of his impeachment cases. Deena Zaru, ABC News, 1 Aug. 2025 Giuffre is not known to have accused Trump of wrongdoing, and he’s denied any impropriety involving Epstein and Maxwell. Brian Niemietz, New York Daily News, 1 Aug. 2025 Boettcher acknowledged the arrangement but denied any wrongdoing. Kenny Jacoby, USA Today, 1 Aug. 2025 The inclusion of someone's name in files from the investigation does not imply wrongdoing. Khaleda Rahman, MSNBC Newsweek, 31 July 2025 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

Cite this Entry

“Wrongdoing.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/wrongdoing. Accessed 8 Aug. 2025.

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

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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