Definition

Noun: A peccadillo is a small, relatively unimportant fault or sin; a minor misdeed or lapse in behavior.

Usage

The word "peccadillo" is used to describe a trivial offense or a slight error in judgment, often implying that it is not serious enough to warrant severe criticism. It is frequently used in a somewhat forgiving or dismissive tone.

Examples

• Forgetting to call someone back is a mere peccadillo.
• The politician's financial peccadillos were widely reported in the press.
• We all have our little peccadillos; nobody is perfect.

Advanced Usage

• The plural form is typically peccadilloes or peccadillos.
• The term often carries a connotation of human fallibility and is used when discussing minor moral or social infractions.

Variants and Related Words

• Peccable (adj): Capable of sinning or liable to sin.
• Peccant (adj, formal): Sinful; violating a moral law.

Synonyms

• Misdemeanor
• Indiscretion
• Lapse
• Transgression (minor)
• Infraction (minor)

Antonyms

• Felony
• Serious crime
• Major sin
• Virtue

Idioms and Phrases

• To forgive someone's peccadilloes: To overlook or pardon their minor faults.
  • The public was willing to forgive the celebrity's peccadilloes because of her charitable work.

Noun

1. a petty misdeed