wrongful
UK: ˈrɒŋfʊl | US: ˈrɔːŋfʊl
adj. involving unfairness or injustice; unlawful
adj. characterized by wrongdoing or misconduct
The word "wrongful" combines "wrong," derived from Old English wrang (meaning "twisted, unjust"), with the suffix "-ful," which originates from Old English -full (meaning "full of"). The term evolved to describe actions or situations that are inherently unjust or unlawful, reflecting the moral and legal connotations of "wrong." The suffix "-ful" amplifies the sense of being characterized by the root quality, making "wrongful" mean "full of wrong."
The court ruled the dismissal as wrongful and ordered compensation.
She filed a lawsuit for wrongful termination.
The jury found the defendant guilty of wrongful imprisonment.
His wrongful actions led to severe consequences.
The family sought justice for the wrongful death of their relative.