misspent

[ mis-spent ]

verb

1. simple past tense and past participle of misspend.

adjective

1. spent wrongly or unwisely; wasted:

   misspent youth.

Word History and Origins

Origin of misspent¹

First recorded in 1425–75, for the adjective

Example Sentences

Other issues to arise in this contest have included the role of school police on campus and allegations that the district misspent voter-approved funding to increase arts instruction, questions that the candidates have addressed below.

From Los Angeles Times

Though beset by financial troubles and following a trial in which a jury found LaPierre misspent millions of the NRA’s money, the group remains a political force.

From Seattle Times

Beutner said it was important not to wait, because it will be hard to claw back for students money that has already been misspent.

From Los Angeles Times

While campaigning, Conyears-Ervin has been dogged by questions from a city ethics probe for allegedly firing top aides who claim she misspent taxpayer money and pressured public employees to help political allies.

From Seattle Times

The state seeks to recover more than $20 million in misspent welfare money, including some that went to a volleyball facility that Favre supported at the University of Southern Mississippi.

From Seattle Times