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 to federal criminal charges, some of which overlap with the House ethics case. —Anthony Man, Sun Sentinel, 25 Apr. 2026

The Clippers and Ballmer deny wrongdoing occurred and maintain that Ballmer was a victim of Sanberg’s fraud. —Michael McCann, Sportico.com, 24 Apr. 2026

Russini and Vrabel, who are separately married, denied any wrongdoing to Page Six following the April 7 release of the images. —Jaclyn Hendricks, PEOPLE, 24 Apr. 2026

That’s because the attorney general for the relevant state normally handles litigation against charities suspected of wrongdoing. —Beth Gazley, The Conversation, 24 Apr. 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