What does peccable mean?
Peccable is an adjective meaning capable of sin, error, or moral wrongdoing. It is especially associated with theological and philosophical discussions of humanity, where it marks an important distinction: being peccable does not mean that someone is constantly sinful, but that wrongdoing remains possible. The word also conveys that perfection is not a settled human condition, because a person can be capable of making mistakes even while sincerely intending to do good. In religious usage, it contrasts with the idea of a being who is altogether incapable of sin. In broader formal writing, it can suggest moral fallibility without implying any specific religious belief. Peccable is uncommon in ordinary conversation, so words such as fallible, imperfect, or sinful are usually more natural. Nevertheless, it is useful when precision matters, especially when describing a capacity for wrongdoing rather than a particular act.
adjectiveCapable of sinning or committing moral wrongdoing. The word is used especially in theological and philosophical contexts to describe a human nature that is not inherently perfect.
- Capable of sinning or committing moral wrongdoing.
- Subject to error or moral failure, especially when describing human nature.
"Theological traditions have often described human beings as peccable, capable of wrongdoing even while aspiring to virtue."
"The philosopher argued that even the most virtuous person remains peccable."
"In the theological debate, the distinction between a peccable person and a perfectly holy being was central."
Peccable captures the human condition in one word: we are not necessarily sinful in every moment, but we remain capable of sin.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does peccable come from?
The word comes through Medieval Latin from Latin peccare, meaning “to sin” or “to commit a fault.” The adjective peccabilis was formed on the same Latin pattern as other terms describing capacity or possibility, giving English the sense “liable to sin.” The root is also reflected in English words such as peccant and peccancy, while peccadillo is a later Spanish-derived word based on the same Latin tradition.
Related word forms
How peccable is actually used
This is a relatively uncommon, learned word, used chiefly in theological, philosophical, and formal writing. It is more common in discussions of human nature and moral theology than in everyday conversation.
Easily confused with peccable
Peccable describes someone or something capable of sinning, whereas peccant means actively offending or committing a fault.
Peccable means capable of wrongdoing, while impeccable means free from fault or blame.