Synonyms of malfunction

malfunction

verb

as in to fail

to fail to function or work properly

A software problem is causing the system to malfunction.

Related Words

• fail
• crash
• die
• act up
• stall
• cut out
• break down
• give out
• break
• sputter
• fizzle
• jam
• conk (out)
• wheeze

Dissimilar Words

• start (up)

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of malfunction

Inside the messy lab, malfunctioning doors are the first obstacle. — Fran Ruiz, Space.com, 3 Sep. 2026

If the reason your appliance or system malfunctioned is listed under an exclusion, your home warranty provider will deny your claim. — Alora Bopray, USA Today, 27 Aug. 2026

The David character is a malfunctioning AI android who was a maintenance crew member on the Prometheus. — Pat Saperstein, Variety, 26 Aug. 2026

Deaths apparently caused by malfunctioning or inaccessible doorhandles, have led to regulatory changes in China, prompting the widespread recalls involving nine automakers. — Lora Kolodny, CNBC, 21 Aug. 2026