sinner
Americannoun
Etymology
Origin of sinner
A Middle English word dating back to 1275–1325; see origin at sin 1, -er 1
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.
And “Whoever despises his neighbor is a sinner, but blessed is he who is generous to the poor.”
From Salon • Apr. 13, 2025
“I finally saw, like, ‘Oh, I’m a sinner by God’s standard,’ and then I understood my need for a savior and for Jesus,” she said.
From Washington Times • Nov. 24, 2023
Which is Ridley-Thomas really, people seem to be asking — a saint or a sinner?
From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 7, 2023
It took a credible swing at Cave's dark religious imagery, with lyrics like: "I am the sinner, I am the saint."
From BBC • Jan. 17, 2023
“Now this won’t do,” said John, hardening his heart against the engaging little sinner.
From "Little Women" by Louisa May Alcott
![]()
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.