misfeasance

[ mis-fee-zuhns ]

Phonetic (Standard)IPA

noun

, Law.

a wrong, actual or alleged, arising from or consisting of affirmative action.
the wrongful performance of a normally lawful act; the wrongful and injurious exercise of lawful authority.

misfeasance

/ mɪsˈfiːzəns /

See nonfeasance, malfeasance
law the improper performance of an act that is lawful in itself Compare malfeasance nonfeasance

From the Anglo-French word mesfesance, dating back to 1590–1600. See mis- ¹, feasance

C16: from Old French mesfaisance, from mesfaire to perform misdeeds

How does misfeasance compare to similar and commonly confused words? Explore the most common comparisons:

Misfeasance and malfeasance in public office ought to be considered an unpardonable crime, and the guilty dealt with accordingly.

If any loss has arisen to the estate from any misfeasance, neglect or omission of the trustee, it may require him to make it good.

The President cannot be held responsible for the misfeasance of subordinates, unless adopted, or at least tolerated, by him.

In the language of the courts, an agent is liable to third parties for malfeasance, but not for misfeasance.

The sheriff could be sued for misfeasance such as bribery in the King's court.

April 19, 2024tortuous

[tawr-choo-uhs ]

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