ENGLISH
REFERENCE

sinner

n. countable
B2 Upper Intermediate US //ˈsɪnɝ// UK //sˈɪnɐ// sin·ner

n. someone who does something that is considered morally wrong or breaks a religious law. You use this word for people who act against what their faith or conscience says is right.

n. a person who transgresses against divine law or a moral code. Often used in religious contexts to describe an individual who has committed a moral offense.


SIMPLE

The preacher spoke about how every sinner can find forgiveness.

CONTEXTUAL

In many traditional stories, the main character starts as a sinner but eventually changes their ways to help others.

COMPLEX

The novel explores the blurred lines between saint and sinner, suggesting that even the most virtuous individuals harbor secret flaws and past regrets.

Synonyms
Origin

From Middle English synnere, equivalent to sin + -er. Compare Saterland Frisian Säänder (“sinner”), West Frisian sûnder (“sinner”), Dutch zondaar (“sinner”), German Low German Sünder, Sünner (“sinner”), German Sünder (“sinner”), Danish synder (“sinner”), Swedish syndare (“sinner”), Icelandic syndari (“sinner”).

Usage

Commonly paired with adjectives like 'repentant', 'miserable', or 'unrepentant'.

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