malfunction
noun
failure to function properly.
had malfunctioned
-
past perfectof malfunction.past perfect
Used to express a completed action that took place before another specific past action occurred.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
An air valve had malfunctioned, according to the complaint, but Kettle refused to approve a fix afterwards because it would have led to train delays at Union Station.
From Los Angeles Times ● Sep. 15, 2026
German officials said Berlin had calibrated its response to the Leipzig incident in part to reflect the fact that the drones had malfunctioned and caused no damage or victims.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Sep. 2, 2026
The Pimlico track’s timing device showed Secretariat clocked 1:55 for 1 3/16 miles, but it had malfunctioned.
From Washington Times ● May 3, 2023
Their boat, which had malfunctioned and drifted toward the island nation, was heading to Indonesia, said Capt. Gayan Wickramasuriya, a spokesman for the Sri Lanka Navy.
From New York Times ● Dec. 20, 2022
It was like something inside of him had malfunctioned, and he was going to keep rambling until his batteries died.
From "We Are the Ants" by Shaun David Hutchinson
