noun
misdeed
mis-DEED/ˌmɪsˈdiːd/
An act that is morally wrong.
Stealing the wallet from the unattended coat is a deliberate misdeed.
Etymology
A deed is simply something done; the prefix marks it as wrong. The compound already meant a wicked action or sin in Old English, closely matching today's wrongful act.
In context
breaking faith with this poor damsel, who was a maiden and now by his misdeed is none; and say that he shall fulfill the promise he gave her to become her lawful husband
More examples
- The report exposes years of financial misdeeds.
- She tries to make up for her misdeed.
- Even a small misdeed can damage someone's trust.
Forms
misdeed · misdeeds
Similar words
- wrongdoing
- Often describes wrongful behavior generally rather than one specific act.
- offense
- Often emphasizes breaking a law or rule, not moral wrongness.
- transgression
- More formal; emphasizes violating a moral boundary or rule.