Definitions

guilt

[gilt] / gɪlt /

NOUN

blame; bad conscience over responsibility

Synonyms

STRONGEST

culpability disgrace indiscretion liability regret remorse responsibility shame sin stigma

STRONG

answerability blameworthiness contrition crime criminality delinquency dereliction dishonor error failing fault infamy iniquity lapse malfeasance malpractice misbehavior misconduct misstep offense onus penitence self-condemnation self-reproach sinfulness solecism transgression wickedness wrong

WEAK

malefaction peccability

Antonyms

STRONGEST

happiness honor irresponsibility pride respect satisfaction

STRONG

advantage behavior benefit blessing correction good goodness kindness manners obedience perfection right strength success virtue

WEAK

innocence

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

“I think there’s, frankly, too much of a focus on past guilt, and we need to move beyond that,” he told them.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jul. 8, 2026

Neither the authorisation of criminal charges nor a Crown Censure represents a finding of guilt, HSE said.

From BBC • Jul. 5, 2026

Hilton and his family enjoyed the home, the community and Las Vegas in general so much he says he feels a bit of guilt moving his family away.

From MarketWatch • Jun. 30, 2026

In both Dutch and German, the word for debt also means guilt.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 24, 2026

Ella's heart raced, the guilt swirling inside her.

From "The Marvellers" by Dhonielle Clayton

Vocabulary lists containing guilt

Beowulf vocabulary

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"The Moustache" and "Who We Really Are"

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Module 1: Vocabulary Video Words

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