MALEFACTOR Meaning and
Definition
-
A malefactor refers to an individual who is guilty of committing a crime, an offense, or some form of wrongdoing. The term carries a negative connotation and is often used to describe a person who actively engages in illegal or immoral activities, operating outside the boundaries set by society's laws and norms. It is derived from the Latin word "malefacere," which means "to do evil" or "to commit a crime."
The concept of a malefactor encompasses a wide range of illegal actions, including theft, assault, murder, fraud, and various forms of violence. Malefactors can be individuals acting alone or organized groups involved in criminal enterprises or conspiracies. They intentionally defy the established rules of society for personal gain, often causing harm or distress to others in the process.
Historically, malefactors were often punished by being banished from their community, imprisoned, or subjected to various forms of physical penalties. In modern legal systems, malefactors are prosecuted and, if found guilty, may face imprisonment, fines, or other consequences, depending on the severity of their crimes. The term "malefactor" is primarily used in legal contexts to categorize and identify individuals who have committed offenses against the law. It implies a moral judgment and tends to evoke a sense of disapproval or condemnation towards those who have transgressed societal norms through their unlawful behavior.
-
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Top Common Misspellings for MALEFACTOR *
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
Other Common Misspellings for MALEFACTOR
Etymology of MALEFACTOR
The word malefactor is derived from the Latin term malefacere, which is a combination of malus meaning bad or evil, and facere meaning to make or to do. Thus, malefacere literally translates to to do bad or to do evil. Over time, this Latin term was anglicized and evolved into malefactor, referring to someone who commits a crime or an evil act, often used synonymously with wrongdoer or criminal.
Similar spelling words for MALEFACTOR
Infographic
Add the infographic to your website:
