Meaning & Definition of word "Guilt"

Guilt

/ɡɪlt/

1. The state of having committed an offense, crime, or wrong, especially against moral or ethical standards.
- Example: She felt a deep sense of guilt after lying to her friend.
2. A feeling of remorse or responsibility for a perceived offense or wrongdoing.
- Example: His guilt about not visiting his parents often weighed heavily on him.
3. The fact of having committed a breach of conduct, especially a legal offense.
- Example: The jury found the defendant's guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.

Middle English, from Old English 'gylt' meaning 'a crime, sin, or offense'.

guilt trip:

An attempt to make someone feel guilty, often used to influence their behavior.

guilty conscience:

A feeling of guilt about one's actions or behavior.

guilt by association:

Being judged negatively for the people one associates with.

culpability:

The condition of being liable or responsible for a fault or wrong.

remorse:

Deep regret or guilt for a wrong committed.

repentance:

Sincere regret or remorse for one's wrongdoing.

Meaning: Guilt trip

Example Sentence: Stop giving me a guilt trip about not calling you.

Meaning: Survivor's guilt

Example Sentence: He has survivor's guilt after his friends didn’t make it out.