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mortal sin
noun
: a sin (such as murder) that is deliberately committed and is of such serious consequence according to Thomist theology that it deprives the soul of sanctifying grace compare venial sin sense 1
Examples of mortal sin in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
For example, Catholics who are married in the church, get divorced and are remarried are, for all intents and purposes, living in a state of mortal sin.
—Voice Of The People, New York Daily News, 14 June 2024
And of course, a 4-year-old child is not capable of mortal sin.
—Michael Schaub, Orange County Register, 15 Feb. 2024
Season three is all about Din, who is on a spiritual journey towards redemption after committing the mortal sin of taking off his helmet in front of others in the season two finale.
—Katie Rife, Chron, 2 Mar. 2023
Any association with gambling was a mortal sin.
—BostonGlobe.com, 28 Aug. 2021
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Word History
First Known Use
15th century, in the meaning defined above
Time Traveler
The first known use of mortal sin was
in the 15th century
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Cite this Entry
“Mortal sin.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/mortal%20sin. Accessed 14 Nov. 2024.
Kids Definition
mortal sin
noun
: a sin considered so serious or wicked as to deserve eternal punishment
More from Merriam-Webster on mortal sin
Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about mortal sin
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