1. to engage in sexual intercourse outside of marriage
Usage: formal or religious context; often considered vulgar or offensive in modern usage

Examples

• Religious teachings traditionally condemned those who fornicated outside of wedlock.
• The historical text discussed strict laws against fornication in colonial times.
• In some conservative communities, fornication was considered a serious moral transgression.
• The pastor warned his congregation against fornication and other sins.
• Legal codes in earlier centuries often included penalties for fornication.