misdemeanor
|mis/de/mean/or|
B2
🇺🇸
/ˌmɪsdɪˈmiːnər/
🇬🇧
/ˌmɪsdɪˈmiːnə/
minor offense
Etymology
Etymology Information
'misdemeanor' originates from Middle English, specifically the word 'demeanor,' where 'mis-' meant 'wrongly' and 'demeanor' referred to 'behavior.'
Historical Evolution
'demeanor' transformed into the Middle English word 'misdemeanor,' and eventually became the modern English word 'misdemeanor.'
Meaning Changes
Initially, it meant 'wrong behavior,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'a minor criminal offense.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
a minor wrongdoing or criminal offense that is less serious than a felony.
He was charged with a misdemeanor for vandalizing the park.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:35