Sinful
'sɪnfəl
Definitions
Relating to or characterized by sin; wicked or immoral.
'sɪnfəl
Morally wrong; wicked or involving sin.
He considered his lavish lifestyle a sinful indulgence.
💡 Simply: Imagine you did something you know is wrong, like taking a cookie before dinner without asking. That's kind of sinful!
👶 For kids: Something that is naughty or bad, like doing something you're not supposed to.
More Examples
The Puritan community viewed dancing as a sinful activity.
Her actions were considered sinful by the religious authorities.
How It's Used
"The priest warned against sinful thoughts and actions."
"The novel explores the sinful desires that can consume a person."
From Middle English *synful*, from Old English *synnfull* ('full of sin'). The word traces back to Proto-Germanic roots, reflecting the ancient concept of transgression against moral or religious laws.
In earlier texts, 'sinful' was often directly connected to religious concepts, describing actions that broke religious laws or offended deities. Over time, its usage broadened to include general immorality and wickedness.
Memory tip
Think of a sin as something that makes you feel full of guilt.
Word Origin
"full of sin"