malversation

[ mal-ver-sey-shuhn ]

noun

, Chiefly Law.

1. improper or corrupt behavior in office, especially in public office.

malversation

/ ˌmælvɜːˈseɪʃən /

noun

1. rare.
   professional or public misconduct

Word History and Origins

Origin of malversation¹

1540–50; < Middle French, equivalent to malvers ( er ) to embezzle (< Latin male versārī to behave badly, equivalent to male badly ( mal- ) + versārī to behave, conduct oneself, passive (in middle sense) of versāre to turn; versatile ) + -ation -ation

Word History and Origins

Origin of malversation¹

C16: from French, from malverser to behave badly, from Latin male versārī

Example Sentences

Tories and malecontent Whigs, elated by the hope that Montague might be convicted of malversation, eagerly called for inquiry.

From Project Gutenberg

We think it a marvellous act of malversation in a trustee, to benefit himself unjustly out of the funds entrusted to his care.

From Project Gutenberg

Another example of British malversation in China, and a further instance of persecution of the Ti-pings!

From Project Gutenberg

To the crime of being Potts the wretched Colonel had now added malversation of a trust fund.

From Project Gutenberg

By the latter device, are we not assured against malversation of the funds?

From Project Gutenberg

Related Words

• dereliction
• immorality
• impropriety
• malfeasance
• malpractice
• misbehavior
• mischief
• misdemeanor
• mismanagement
• offense
• transgression
• wrongdoing