1 culpa | Definition of culpa

culpa

noun
cul·​pa | \ ˈku̇lpÉ™, ˈkÉ™l-\
plural culpae\ -​u̇lËŒpÄ« , -​É™lËŒpÄ“ \

Definition of culpa

1 Roman & civil law : actionable negligence or fault specifically : the failure to use the care and diligence demanded by the special relationship between the plaintiff and defendant under the particular circumstances that arises from inattention, careless conduct, or want of care distinguished from dolus
2 Roman & civil law : all actionable fault or misconduct including both negligence and willful or wanton wrongs arising from malice, fraud, or a desire for wrongful gain

History and Etymology for culpa

Latin, guilt, fault; probably akin to Old Irish col sin, blame, Welsh cwl

Keep scrolling for more

More from Merriam-Webster on culpa

Spanish Central: Translation of culpa