Sin

As a Noun

1. A moral or religious wrongdoing, often seen as a violation of divine law (e.g., lying is considered a sin).
2. A serious offense or fault against ethical or social standards (e.g., it’s a sin to waste food).
3. In mathematics, short for sine, a trigonometric function.

As a Verb

1. To commit an act that is considered morally or religiously wrong (e.g., he feared he had sinned).

Word History

The word sin comes from the Old English synn, which originally meant “offense” or “wrongdoing.” It is related to the Germanic and Latin words for guilt or fault. In religious contexts, it became strongly associated with violations of divine commandments.

Examples

1. Many religions teach that stealing is a sin.
2. He confessed his sins and asked for forgiveness.
3. It’s a sin to let such talent go to waste.
4. The preacher warned them not to sin against their neighbors.

Synonyms

Wrongdoing, offense, transgression, immorality, crime

Related Words

Guilt, fault, evil, misdeed, violation

Antonyms

Virtue, righteousness, goodness, morality, innocence