misappropriate

[mis-uh-proh-pree-eyt]

verb (used with object)

misappropriated, misappropriating 

1. to put to a wrong use.

2. to apply wrongfully or dishonestly, as funds entrusted to one's care.

misappropriate

/ ˌmɪsəˈprəʊprɪˌeɪt /

verb

1. (tr) to appropriate for a wrong or dishonest use; embezzle or steal

Other Word Forms

• misappropriation noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of misappropriate¹

First recorded in 1855–60; mis- ¹ + appropriate

Example Sentences

The investigators asked about a whistleblower’s allegations that the startup stock exchange had misappropriated investor funds, the people said.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

“I just know any block grant or any funding that would be left up to state officials on Title I money would be misappropriated in terms of the intent,” Phillis said.

Read more on Salon

He has said he cut ties with Epstein after he learned he had "misappropriated vast sums of money from him and his family".

Read more on BBC

Kenyan academic Karuti Kanyinga agrees that the social media content feeds into a desire for accountable leaders who can change Africa, do not misappropriate resources and try to uplift people from poverty.

Read more on BBC

The US Department of Education announced the agreement, saying the Ivy League institution would apologise and restore to female athletes titles and records that were "misappropriated by male athletes".

Read more on BBC

Related Words

• embezzle 
• misspend 
• misuse 
• plunder 
• swindle