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An infraction is usually the breaking of a law, rule, or agreement. So a nation charged with an infraction of an international treaty will usually have to pay a penalty. In Federal law, an infraction is even smaller than a misdemeanor, and the only penalty is a fine. Most of us occasionally commit infractions of parking laws and get ticketed; speeding tickets are usually for infractions as well, though they go on a permanent record and can end up costing you money for years to come. The closely related word infringement generally refers to a violation of a right or privilege; use of another's writings without permission, for example, may be an infringement of the copyright.
Examples of infraction in a Sentence
John A. Shjarback, The Conversation, 25 May 2026
Colorado’s penalty kill was immense, erasing three Vegas opportunities and drawing an infraction as well.
—Corey Masisak, Denver Post, 23 May 2026
The Las Vegas Aces were fined an undisclosed amount in 2024 after an infraction.
—James Boyd, New York Times, 23 May 2026
On the first and second offense, violators will receive an infraction fine of $300.
—Rose Evans, Idaho Statesman, 19 May 2026
See All Example Sentences for infraction
Cite this Entry
“Infraction.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/infraction. Accessed 28 May. 2026.
Copy CitationKids Definition
infraction
noun
