Synonyms of adultery

adultery

noun

ə-ˈdəl-t(ə-)rē 

as in cheating

a sexual encounter or relationship between a married person and someone other than their spouse

adultery is the cause of many divorces

Synonyms & Similar Words

• cheating
• misconduct
• infidelity
• treachery
• unfaithfulness
• affair
• romance
• promiscuity
• two-timing
• love
• disloyalty
• intrigue
• faithlessness
• perfidy
• criminal conversation
• inconstancy
• infatuation
• falseness
• free love
• fling
• flirtation
• perfidiousness
• amour
• love affair
• entanglement
• attachment
• liaison
• passion

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• fidelity
• faithfulness
• loyalty
• devotion
• dedication
• allegiance
• constancy
• steadfastness
• fealty
• devotedness

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of adultery

The Royal Family, whose relations with Spencer have long been strained, are said to fear the book could contain numerous bombshells about Charles and Diana’s relationship, which was infamously plagued by adultery and acrimony. — K.j. Yossman, Variety, 17 Sep. 2026

Its citizens held slaves, some of whom were shackled for committing adultery. — Boris Kachka, The Atlantic, 4 Sep. 2026

Because of its unfiltered depictions of sexuality, inappropriate relationships, and adultery, the 1971 film received a chilly response in conservative communities; however, it was applauded by critics and earned eight Oscar nominations. — Air Mail, 22 Aug. 2026

Leontes, the king of Sicilia, has baselessly accused his wife, Hermione, of adultery, and the consequences have been dire. — Sara Holdren, Vulture, 12 Aug. 2026