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.
The bureau’s work has led to nearly $20 billion in direct relief to consumers and $5 billion in civil penalties for alleged wrongdoing. Andy Kroll, ProPublica, 18 Oct. 2025 Lorch and Holmes settled the case two years later for $325,000, with Lorch admitting to no wrongdoing other than paddling the player. Luke Cyphers, Sportico.com, 17 Oct. 2025 The bureau’s work has led to nearly twenty billion dollars in direct relief to consumers and five billion dollars in civil penalties for alleged wrongdoing. Andy Kroll, New Yorker, 17 Oct. 2025 Comey, who was indicted on charges of lying to Congress, and James, who is charged with mortgage fraud, have both denied wrongdoing. Pierre Thomas, ABC News, 17 Oct. 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 19 Oct. 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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