transgression

noun

trans·​gres·​sion tran(t)s-ˈgre-shən How to pronounce transgression (audio)
tranz-
Synonyms of transgression
: an act, process, or instance of transgressing: such as
a
: infringement or violation of a law, command, or duty
b
: the spread of the sea over land areas and the consequent unconformable deposit of sediments on older rocks

Synonyms of transgression

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Examples of transgression in a Sentence

acts that are transgressions against the laws of civilized societies everywhere a dying woman asking for divine forgiveness for a lifetime of transgressions
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Jantar Mantar, the protest site in Delhi, embodied an aesthetic of collective transgression. — Asim Ali, Time, 1 Aug. 2026 According to Richmond, LeMond’s dietary transgressions didn’t stop at Twinkies. — Tom Campbell, New York Times, 1 Aug. 2026 The result is a sensational tapestry of transgressions and secrets that Duke doesn’t see coming. — Aramide Tinubu, Variety, 31 July 2026 To say Biden has been leaning into his past transgressions and addressing them head-on would be an understatement. — Usa Today, USA Today, 27 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for transgression

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of transgression was in the 14th century

Rhymes for transgression

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Browse Nearby Words

transgress
transgression
transgressive
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Cite this Entry

“Transgression.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/transgression. Accessed 5 Aug. 2026.

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Kids Definition

transgression

noun
trans·​gres·​sion tran(t)s-ˈgresh-ən How to pronounce transgression (audio)
tranz-
: an act, process, or example of transgressing

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Nglish: Translation of transgression for Spanish Speakers

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