malfunction
noun
failure to function properly.
malfunctioned
-
past participleof malfunction.past participle
A verb form used in perfect and passive verb constructions and that can also function as a modifier.
-
past tense formof malfunction.past tense
Used to describe completed actions or previous habitual actions.
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.
The US military said one of its underwater drones "malfunctioned" and was not carrying any sensitive data.
From Barron's ● Sep. 8, 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
Actually, it’s Stuart from an alternative universe enlisting him to restore things with the help of a malfunctioned quantum interference device created by Sheldon, Leonard and Howard.
From Los Angeles Times ● Jul. 13, 2026
One of Starship's engines also malfunctioned, which forced a slightly longer burn from the remaining five to compensate.
From BBC ● May 23, 2026
What if the toilet she was using malfunctioned, or got clogged?
From "Flush" by Carl Hiaasen
