misconduct

[mis-kon-duhkt, mis-kuhn-duhkt]

noun

1. improper or wrong behavior.

   Numerous accusations of sexual misconduct have blighted his campaign.

   Her license was revoked for professional misconduct and poor professional performance.

   Synonyms: misstep, misdeed, misbehavior, wrongdoing

2. unlawful behavior by an official in regard to their office, or by a person in the administration of justice, such as a lawyer, witness, or juror; malfeasance.

   A complaint was filed against the prosecutor, alleging misconduct in the case.

verb (used with object)

1. to mismanage.

2. to misbehave (oneself ).

misconduct

noun

1. behaviour, such as adultery or professional negligence, that is regarded as immoral or unethical

verb

1. to conduct (oneself) in such a way

2. to manage (something) badly

Word History and Origins

Origin of misconduct¹

First recorded in 1700–10; mis- ¹ + conduct

Example Sentences

The board, which investigates claims of police misconduct, is unpopular among officers.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

Her successor faces allegations of misconduct related to an office relationship, even as he lectured others on the need for equality and diversity in the 60,000-person market.

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Messrs. Shapley and Ziegler accomplished all this by using whistleblower laws, by using Congress and the media to bravely expose the misconduct, complete with details and documents.

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Sgt Steve Stamp is also due to face hearings as part of the Met's accelerated misconduct proceedings in the wake of the 1 October broadcast.

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It didn’t describe any misconduct or other specific concerns in relation to the dismissals.

Read more on Barron's

Related Words

• dereliction 
• immorality 
• impropriety 
• malfeasance 
• malpractice 
• misbehavior 
• mischief 
• misdemeanor 
• mismanagement www.thesaurus.com
• offense 
• transgression 
• wrongdoing