misappropriation

[mis-uh-proh-pree-ey-shuhn]

noun

1. wrongful use, especially the dishonest or inappropriate use of others’ money, data, etc..

   He pled guilty to multiple counts of misappropriation of public funds and falsifying public documents, and received a four-year prison sentence.

   Database owners are concerned about the possible commercial misappropriation of their products.

Word History and Origins

Origin of misappropriation¹

mis- ¹ ( def. ) + appropriation ( def. )

Example Sentences

Since their establishment, Nabu and Sap have been involved in far-reaching investigations into the misappropriation of millions of dollars' worth of assets and bribes across various ministries and sectors.

From BBC

Since then the two bodies have been involved in far-reaching investigations into the misappropriation of millions of dollars' worth of assets and bribes across various ministries and sectors.

From BBC

The Zambian health sector is heavily funded by foreign donors, but there have been previous reports of widespread misappropriation and corruption involving senior health officials.

From BBC

Both Girardi and Kamon face additional federal charges in Chicago over the misappropriation of millions of dollars in settlements for families of plane crash victims.

From Los Angeles Times

A copy of a warrant reviewed by The Times shows that investigators are looking into allegations of bribery, misappropriation of public funds, conflict of interest, money laundering and conspiracy.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• desecration 
• exploitation 
• misconduct 
• misdeed 
• mishandling www.thesaurus.com
• misuse 
• prostitution 
• wrongdoing