misdemeanors
|mis-de-mean-ors|
B2
🇺🇸
/ˌmɪsdɪˈmiːnərz/
🇬🇧
/ˌmɪsdɪˈmiːnəz/
(misdemeanor)
minor offense
Etymology
Etymology Information
'misdemeanor' originates from Middle English, specifically the word 'misdemeanour,' where 'mis-' meant 'wrongly' and 'demeanor' referred to 'behavior.'
Historical Evolution
'misdemeanour' transformed into the modern English word 'misdemeanor' through American English.
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 several misdemeanors.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:45