Heinous/ˈheɪnəs/ Definition 1 of 2Pro Tip 1/3Moral Outrage Use 'heinous' to express strong disgust at actions against moral or ethical principles. The heinous act shocked the entire community. Pro Tip 2/3Not Hyperbole 'Heinous' suggests extreme negativity and should not be used for mild wrongdoing or mistakes. Calling his small lie heinous was an exaggeration. Pro Tip 3/3Serious Contexts Frequently appears in serious contexts, such as news reports about crimes or moral discussions. The documentary examined the heinous effects of war.