Guilt (gĭlt), n. [OE.
gilt, gult, AS. gylt, crime; probably originally
signifying, the fine or mulct paid for an offence, and afterward the
offense itself, and akin to AS. gieldan to pay, E.
yield. See Yield, v. t.]
1. The criminality and consequent exposure to
punishment resulting from willful disobedience of law, or from
morally wrong action; the state of one who has broken a moral or
political law; crime; criminality; offense against right.
Satan had not answer, but stood struck
With guilt of his own sin.
Milton.
2. Exposure to any legal penalty or
forfeiture.
A ship incurs guilt by the violation of a
blockade.
Kent.