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The performance of a wrongful or unlawful act, particularly by a public official.
synonyms:misconductwrongdoing
The term 'malfeasance' comes from the Middle French word 'malfaisance,' which means 'wrongdoing' and is derived from the Latin 'malefacere,' meaning 'to do evil.' The word has been in use in English since the 17th century.
Malfeasance is primarily a legal term, often used in discussions of government or corporate misconduct. It's commonly encountered in legal documents and news articles related to crime and ethics.
While 'malfeasance' is not a term used in everyday conversation, it is frequently found in legal contexts and discussions about ethics, making it somewhat familiar to those interested in law or politics.
The mayor was accused of malfeasance after misusing city funds for personal expenses.
The board took immediate action against the executive for malfeasance that jeopardized the company's integrity.
During the investigation, several instances of malfeasance were uncovered, leading to significant public outcry.
Malfeasance is a term that might sound a bit intimidating, but it simply refers to wrongful actions, especially by those in positions of authority. Its roots can be traced back to French and Latin, which collectively illustrate the idea of 'doing evil.' The word often pops up in discussions of politics and law, where accountability is paramount. If you ever come across a public official being held accountable for their actions, there's a good chance malfeasance is in the mix!