# iniquity

/ˌɪˈnɪkwɪti/ (US) · /ɪnˈɪkwɪti/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/iniquity
Updated: 2026-08-27

## Senses

### 1. wickedness or injustice

noun · CEFR C2 · Formal · Literary

the quality of being very unfair or morally wrong.

For teachers: gross injustice or wickedness; the quality of being deeply immoral. Uncountable in this abstract sense.

- The reformer spent his life fighting against the iniquity of the slave trade.
- The philosopher argued that the inherent iniquity of the social system would eventually lead to a total collapse of public trust.

Usage: Often used in the singular to describe a general state of unfairness.

Teaching tip: This is a high-level, formal word often found in religious or historical texts; students should use 'unfairness' or 'wrongdoing' in everyday speech.

### 2. a wicked act

noun · CEFR C2 · Formal · Literary

a specific action that is very unfair or evil.

For teachers: a specific act of great injustice or a wicked deed. Countable in this sense.

- The survivors told stories of the iniquities committed during the long war.
- The commission was tasked with investigating the various iniquities perpetrated by the regime against its own citizens.

Usage: Commonly used in the plural to list specific instances of wrongdoing.

Teaching tip: Note the plural form 'iniquities' when referring to multiple specific events.

## Examples

- The leader was condemned for his iniquity.
- The new law was designed to address the deep iniquity of the previous social system.
- The prophet's speech was a powerful condemnation of the iniquity that had taken root in the city's highest halls of power.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.