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

On September 2, Thornton’s lawyer spoke with TMZ and denied any wrongdoing. — Allison Degrushe, StyleCaster, 6 Sep. 2026

In 2022, after Foulkes had left CVS, the company agreed to pay $5 billion to settle lawsuits nationwide over the toll of opioids, without admitting wrongdoing. — ABC News, 5 Sep. 2026

Many claims are thought to be legitimate and no plaintiffs in the settlement have been charged with wrongdoing. — Rebecca Ellis, Los Angeles Times, 4 Sep. 2026

The Clippers, both through a team statement and one from an attorney, denied wrongdoing. — Dan Woike, New York Times, 3 Sep. 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