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.

Katie spends much of the season vacillating between raging at Archie and feeling guilt over falling for his manipulative overtures.

From Salon • May 11, 2026

In criminal law, "the burden of proof is higher," noted Brandon Garrett, a law professor at Duke University -- with prosecutors required to establish guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.

From Barron's • May 11, 2026

When Dr. Becky says to greet guilt that creeps in for not knowing this stuff, I do: “Hi, Guilt.”

From Slate • May 10, 2026

I can sense your exhaustion underneath the guilt.

From Los Angeles Times • May 8, 2026

The evidence pointed to Booth’s guilt, but not to how he planned to make his escape.

From "Chasing Lincoln's Killer" by James L. Swanson

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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