A minor crime, punishable by a fine or a light jail term. Common misdemeanors, such as traffic violations, are usually dealt with informally, without a trial. (Comparefelony.)
Main Entry: mis·de·mean·or Pronunciation: "mis-di-'mE-n&r Function: noun : a crime that carries a less severe punishment than a felony; specifically: a crime punishable by a fine and by a term of imprisonment not to be served in a penitentiary and not to exceed one year —compare FELONY