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misfeasance

noun mis·fea·sance \ mis-ˈfē-zᵊn(t)s \
Updated on: 2 Mar 2018
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Definition of misfeasance

: trespass; specifically : the performance of a lawful action in an illegal or improper manner
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misfeasor

play \-ˈfē-zər, -ˌzȯr\ noun

Recent Examples of misfeasance from the Web

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'misfeasance.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Origin and Etymology of misfeasance

Middle French mesfaisance, from mesfaire to do wrong, from mes- mis- + faire to make, do, from Latin facere — more at do

Law Dictionary

misfeasance

noun mis·fea·sance \ mis-ˈfēz-ᵊns \

legal Definition of misfeasance

: the performance of a lawful action in an illegal or improper manner; specifically : the performance of an official duty in an improper or unlawful manner or with an improper or corrupt motive — compare malfeasance, nonfeasance

Origin and Etymology of misfeasance

Anglo-French misfesance, from Middle French mesfaire to do wrong, from mes- wrongly + faire to make, do, from Latin facere

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