What does sinning mean?
Sinning means committing wrongdoing, especially behavior that violates religious teachings or widely accepted moral principles. The word is most familiar in Christian and other religious contexts, where sin may involve disobeying divine law, turning away from moral duty, or knowingly doing what is considered evil. It can also be used more broadly for serious moral misconduct. As a gerund, “sinning” often emphasizes continuing or repeated action, as in “the consequences of sinning,” although it can refer to a particular act in a broader discussion. Related forms include “sin,” the noun identifying an offense or moral wrong, and “sinner,” a person who sins. The vocabulary has strong moral and religious associations, but modern usage sometimes treats “sinning” metaphorically when describing betrayal, dishonesty, or other behavior viewed as seriously improper.
To commit a sin; to act in a way that violates religious teaching or accepted moral principles.
"They continued sinning despite repeated warnings from their community."
Usually describes ongoing or repeated wrongdoing, though it can refer to an act within a broader narrative.
The act or practice of committing sin; morally or religiously wrongful behavior.
"The text examines sinning as a central part of the human condition."
This nominal use is less common than the verb form and is often abstract or literary.
The word “sin” entered English from Latin peccatum, a term associated with moral wrongdoing that later shaped religious and legal vocabulary across English.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does sinning come from?
The modern form belongs to the English word family of “sin,” which was inherited from Old English synn, meaning wrongdoing or offense. The word has roots in Latin peccatum, a term associated with sin or moral fault, and in the related verb peccare, meaning to sin or err. The English noun developed broader religious and moral meanings over time, while “sinning” is the present participle and gerund of the verb “sin.”
Related word forms
How sinning is actually used
“Sinning” is commonly used in religious contexts, but it also appears in broader moral or metaphorical discussion. The gerund form usually describes ongoing behavior; “sins” is preferred when referring to individual offenses.
Easily confused with sinning
“Sinning” means committing wrongdoing or violating moral principles, whereas “signing” means writing one's name or formally authorizing something.
“Sinning” means committing a sin, whereas “singing” means producing musical sounds with the voice.