Synonyms for

Adultery

Verb / ʌˈdʌltɜ:i: / Another word for adultery — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

Adultery is when a married person has a romantic relationship with someone who is not their spouse.

Synonyms & similar words

criminalconversation fornication infidelity cheating unfaithfulness affair philandering fornication betrayal treachery disloyalty tryst liaison hanky-panky misconduct impropriety debauchery immorality amour romance fling

Synonyms by register

Formal

infidelity unfaithfulness betrayal

Informal

cheating stepping out having an affair

Literary

breach of troth conjugal sin

Antonyms

fidelity faithfulness loyalty chastity monogamy constancy

Common collocations

  • commit adultery
  • adultery and fornication
  • adultery charges
  • adultery in marriage
  • adultery law
  • adultery penalty

Word family

noun adultery
verb adulterate
adjective adulterous

Usage note

Adultery specifically refers to sexual intercourse between a married person and someone other than their spouse. It is a formal term with strong negative connotations.

Example sentences

  1. She was heartbroken when she found out about her husband's adultery.
  2. Committing adultery is a violation of the marriage vows.
  3. Adultery is a common reason for divorce.
  4. The Bible considers adultery to be a sin.
  5. He was accused of adultery with his secretary.

Quotes

  • Adultery is the application of democracy to love. - Henry Louis Mencken
  • Adultery is the ultimate deal-breaker for me. I would rather be alone than in a relationship that doesn't honor me. - Sophia Bush
  • Adultery is the revenge of the deserted banquet. - Ambrose Bierce

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