deadly sins


plural noun

the seven sins of pride, covetousness, lust, anger, gluttony, envy, and sloth.
Also called seven deadly sins, capital sins.

Origin of deadly sins

1300–50; Middle English deedly synnes

British Dictionary definitions for seven deadly sins (1 of 2)

seven deadly sins

pl n

a fuller name for the deadly sins

British Dictionary definitions for seven deadly sins (2 of 2)

deadly sins

pl n

theol the sins of pride, covetousness, lust, envy, gluttony, anger, and sloth

Cultural definitions for seven deadly sins

seven deadly sins

Widely known in the Middle Ages as sins that lead to damnation. They are: pride, covetousness (greed), lust, anger, gluttony, envy, and sloth. (See mortal sin/venial sin.)