Definition of "adultery" in English

noun

1. (strictly) Sexual intercourse by a married person with someone other than their spouse. See more synonyms at Thesaurus:cuckoldry

   • She engaged in adultery because her spouse has a low libido, while hers is very high.

2. (biblical, loosely) Lewdness or unchastity of thought as well as act, as forbidden by the sixth/seventh commandment; sinful sexual behavior as a category.

   • Thou shalt not commit adultery.

3. (biblical) Faithlessness in religion.

4. (obsolete) The fine and penalty formerly imposed for the offence of adultery.

5. (ecclesiastical) The intrusion of a person into a bishopric during the life of the bishop.

6. (political economy) Adulteration; corruption.

7. (obsolete) Injury; degradation; ruin.