malfunction

[ mal-fuhngk-shuhn ]

noun

1. failure to function properly:

   a malfunction of the liver; the malfunction of a rocket.

verb (used without object)

1. to fail to function properly.

malfunction

/ mælˈfʌŋkʃən /

verb

1. intr to function imperfectly or irregularly or fail to function

noun

1. failure to function or defective functioning

Word History and Origins

Origin of malfunction¹

First recorded in 1925–30; mal- + function

Example Sentences

Another mum said the malfunction happened within three minutes, but the display was not stopped.

From BBC

Election officials confirmed the video was authentic and the machine did malfunction, but said it was an isolated incident and the voter was able to cast their ballot as intended.

From BBC

In Cambria County, Pennsylvania — another battleground state — officials said a software malfunction kept some voters from scanning their ballots, causing confusion and long lines.

From Los Angeles Times

The Democratic incumbent seemed to malfunction on live TV, then was forced out of the campaign after everyone from Sen. Joe Manchin to George Clooney begged him to step down.

From Slate

Still, the stage malfunction wasn’t the dramatic highlight of Swift’s New Orleans run.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• bug
• defect
• fault
• flaw
• glitch
• impairment