misgovern

[ mis-guhv-ern ]

verb (used with object)

1. to govern or manage badly.

misgovern

/ ˌmɪsˈɡʌvən /

verb

1. to govern badly

Derived Forms

• ˌmisˈgovernment, noun
• ˌmisˈgovernor, noun

Other Words From

• mis·govern·ment mis·govern·ance noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of misgovern¹

First recorded in 1375–1425, misgovern is from the late Middle English word misgovernen. See mis- ¹, govern

Example Sentences

The ruling power cannot be withdrawn from those to whom it has been committed; nor can they be punished for misgovern-ment.

From Project Gutenberg

For the sake of dishonorable peace they leave these native states to misgovern themselves and stink to high heaven!

From Project Gutenberg

For, to misgovern well, one must open his purse as often as he forces the purses of others.

From Project Gutenberg

We may govern ourselves as we please, we may misgovern ourselves as we please.

From Project Gutenberg

The bulk of the proceeds fell into the hands of the clergy and the hidalgos sent out to rob and misgovern the islands.

From Project Gutenberg

Related Words

• botch
• bungle
• err
• flub
• fumble
• misdirect
• mistreat
• misuse
• muff