wickedness

[ wik-id-nis ]

noun

1. the quality or state of being wicked. wick. wicked.
2. wicked wick wicked conduct or practices.
3. a wicked wick wicked act or thing.

Word History and Origins

Origin of wickedness¹

Middle English word dating back to 1250–1300; wicked, -ness

Example Sentences

An independent review led by Richard Horwell QC, published in July 2017, concluded that: "It is human failings that brought about the collapse of the trial, not wickedness."

From BBC

A second person said: "The bolt challenge is paining me because it’s innocent and hardworking people on both sides that are suffering for the wickedness and thoughtlessness of other people. Really unfair."

From BBC

As I took deep sips of my favorite beer I would then look up at that testament to ego and narcissism and proceed to curse Donald Trump — for all the wickedness, damage and insult he has already done and will certainly do to America, her citizens and the world.

From Salon

Shadow foreign secretary Andrew Mitchell told Sky News the shooting was "an appalling act of violence and wickedness" that has been "rightly condemned by everyone for what it is".

From BBC

Disingenuous conflations of crime rates and political leanings are performative politics at best, not substantive debate, but if you’re going to take the low road at least come prepared with powerful examples of L.A.’s wickedness.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• depravity
• sinfulness