Guilty

/ˈɡɪlti/

Meaning & Definition

adjective

Having committed an offense or crime.

The jury found the defendant guilty of theft.

Feeling responsible or remorseful for a perceived offense, crime, or wrong.

She felt guilty for not attending her friend’s wedding.

Justly charged with a crime or offense.

He stood guilty before the court, having confessed to his actions.

Middle English: from Old French 'guilty', from Latin 'culpabilis' meaning 'worthy of blame'.

guilty pleasure

A pleasure that is unusual or not generally approved of.

guilty as charged

Fully accepting responsibility for a wrong or mistake.

culpability

The degree to which someone is guilty of a fault or offense.

culprit

A person responsible for a crime or wrongdoing.

Guilty vibes

I had guilty vibes for not helping him with his project.

Guilty conscience

Her guilty conscience kept her up at night after the argument.