How Do You Spell MISFEASANCE?

Pronunciation: [mɪsfˈiːzəns] (IPA)

Misfeasance is a legal term that refers to the wrongdoing or misconduct of a public official in the execution of their duties. The correct spelling of the word is [ˌmɪsˈfiːzəns], with the stress on the second syllable. The word consists of three syllables: mis-, meaning wrong or bad, -feas, from the Latin facere, meaning to do, and -ance, which indicates the state or quality of something. Thus, misfeasance means the improper performance of an act that is lawful in itself.

MISFEASANCE Meaning and Definition

1. Misfeasance is a legal term that refers to the improper performance or execution of an act, leading to a breach of legal duty or the causing of harm. It is a form of negligence or misconduct by individuals in positions of authority, such as public officials, government employees, or corporate officers. Misfeasance encompasses a wide range of actions, including errors, omissions, misjudgments, or any wrongful act committed in the course of carrying out one's duties.

   The term "misfeasance" is often contrasted with "malfeasance" and "nonfeasance." While malfeasance refers to the intentional and wrongful act or misconduct, misfeasance usually refers to acts that are not intentionally malicious but are nonetheless performed negligently or improperly. On the other hand, nonfeasance refers to the failure to perform an act or duty that one is obligated to do, resulting in a breach of legal duty.

   Misfeasance can have serious consequences, impacting both individuals and organizations. It can lead to liability or legal action against the responsible party, seeking damages for the harm caused. In some cases, misfeasance can also result in criminal charges if it involves intentional wrongdoing or violations of specific laws.

   In summary, misfeasance refers to the improper performance or execution of an act, resulting in a breach of legal duty or causing harm. It involves negligence or misconduct in carrying out one's responsibilities and can lead to legal liability and potential legal action.

2. A trespass; a wrong done; the improper doing of an act which a person might lawfully do.

   Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Common Misspellings for MISFEASANCE

• nisfeasance
• kisfeasance
• jisfeasance
• musfeasance
• mjsfeasance
• mksfeasance
• mosfeasance
• m9sfeasance
• m8sfeasance
• miafeasance
• mizfeasance
• mixfeasance
• midfeasance
• miefeasance
• miwfeasance
• misdeasance
• misceasance
• misveasance
• mysfeasance
• Diffeasance
• Misfersiance
• Misfeisanse

Etymology of MISFEASANCE

The word "misfeasance" originated from Middle English, formed by combining the prefix "mis-" meaning "wrong" or "bad" and the noun "feasance", which derives from the Old French word "faisance" meaning "doing" or "action". Therefore, the word "misfeasance" can be understood as the act of doing something wrongly or improperly.

Plural form of MISFEASANCE is MISFEASANCES