malefactor

IPA

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Dictionary definition of malefactor

A person who has committed a crime or engaged in wrongful behavior.
"The police were able to apprehend the malefactor after a lengthy investigation."

Detailed meaning of malefactor

A malefactor is someone who has broken the law or acted against accepted moral or ethical standards, and as such, they may face legal consequences or social censure for their actions. The term "malefactor" is often used in legal contexts, such as in court proceedings or criminal investigations. Malefactors can range from petty thieves and fraudsters to more serious offenders such as murderers and rapists. The term can also be used more broadly to describe anyone who engages in immoral or unethical behavior, even if it does not rise to the level of a crime. The word "malefactor" connotes a sense of wrongdoing and guilt, and it is often used in a negative or judgmental way.

Example sentences containing malefactor

1. The judge sentenced the malefactor to 10 years in prison for his crimes.
2. The victim was able to identify the malefactor who had robbed them.
3. The malefactor's lawyer argued for a lighter sentence based on extenuating circumstances.
4. The malefactor showed no remorse for his actions during the trial.
5. The victim was frightened to testify against the malefactor in court.
6. The community was outraged by the heinous crimes committed by the malefactor.

History and etymology of malefactor

The noun 'malefactor' has its etymology rooted in Latin. It is derived from the Latin word 'malefactor,' which combines 'male,' meaning 'evil' or 'badly,' and 'factor,' meaning 'doer' or 'maker.' In Latin, 'malefactor' referred to a person who engaged in evil or wrongful actions, particularly someone who committed a crime. 'Malefactor' entered the English language in the late Middle Ages and is used to describe a person who has committed a crime or engaged in wrongful behavior. Its etymology underscores the association with evil deeds or wrongful actions, as implied by its Latin origins in 'malefactor,' emphasizing the characterization of individuals involved in illegal or immoral activities.

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Further usage examples of malefactor

1. The malefactor's criminal record showed a pattern of repeated offenses.
2. The prosecutor presented strong evidence against the malefactor during the trial.
3. The malefactor's family and friends expressed shock and disbelief at the charges against him.
4. The malefactor was known to the police as a repeat offender.
5. The victim was relieved when the malefactor was finally brought to justice.
6. The police swiftly apprehended the malefactor responsible for the bank robbery.
7. The detective was determined to bring the malefactor to justice.
8. The courtroom was filled with anticipation as the malefactor's trial began.
9. The citizens demanded harsh punishment for the malefactor who committed the heinous crime.
10. The malefactor's history of criminal activities was presented as evidence during the trial.
11. The police conducted an extensive investigation to gather evidence against the malefactor.
12. The malefactor's motive for the crime remained a mystery to the detectives.
13. The malefactor's identity was revealed through careful forensic analysis.
14. The victims of the malefactor's actions testified against him in court.
15. The malefactor showed no remorse for his actions, displaying a cold and unfeeling demeanor.
16. The judge sentenced the malefactor to a lengthy prison term for his crimes.