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misdemeanor

noun

/ˌmɪs dɪˈmi nər/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of misdemeanor

A type of criminal offense that is considered less serious than a felony but still constitutes a violation of the law.
"The police officer issued a citation for the misdemeanor of public intoxication."

Detailed meaning of misdemeanor

It is a term primarily used in legal contexts to describe a wide range of minor criminal acts. Misdemeanors can include offenses such as petty theft, public intoxication, disorderly conduct, simple assault, or driving under the influence. Compared to felonies, misdemeanors typically carry less severe penalties, such as fines, probation, community service, or short-term imprisonment. The classification and punishment for misdemeanors may vary depending on the jurisdiction and the specific laws in place. While misdemeanors are less grave than felonies, they are still viewed as breaches of the law and can have consequences on an individual's record, employment opportunities, and personal reputation.

Example sentences containing misdemeanor

1. He was charged with a misdemeanor for shoplifting from the store.
2. She pled guilty to the misdemeanor of reckless driving.
3. The defendant was sentenced to community service for his misdemeanor offense.
4. The lawyer argued for a reduction in the misdemeanor charge against his client.
5. The judge dismissed the misdemeanor case due to lack of evidence.
6. He has a clean record except for a single misdemeanor conviction.

History and etymology of misdemeanor

The term 'misdemeanor' finds its roots in the Middle English word 'misdeden,' which emerged in the 14th century. It can be further dissected into two components: 'mis-' and 'deden.' The prefix 'mis-' in Middle English signifies 'badly' or 'wrongly,' while 'deden' comes from the Old French word 'dedein,' meaning 'to do' or 'to act.' Over time, 'misdeden' evolved into 'misdemeanor,' and its meaning shifted to refer to a type of criminal offense that is less severe than a felony but still a violation of the law. This etymology reflects the notion of wrongful or bad actions that fall within the purview of the legal system.

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Further usage examples of misdemeanor

1. The misdemeanor resulted in a small fine and probation for the offender.
2. The misdemeanor offense led to the suspension of his driver's license.
3. The court imposed a restraining order on him following the misdemeanor of harassment.
4. The company implemented strict policies to prevent employee misdemeanors.
5. The school district reported a decrease in student misdemeanors over the past year.
6. The misdemeanor charge tarnished his reputation and made it difficult to find employment.
7. The attorney advised his client on the potential consequences of a misdemeanor conviction.
8. The legislature passed a bill to increase the penalties for certain types of misdemeanors.
9. Her minor misdemeanor led to a warning instead of an arrest.
10. Committing a misdemeanor can result in fines and probation.
11. He was charged with a misdemeanor for shoplifting.
12. She was unaware that public intoxication was a misdemeanor.
13. The judge decided to expunge his misdemeanor record.
14. A misdemeanor conviction can affect future job prospects.
15. The attorney argued for a reduced sentence for the misdemeanor.
16. Vandalism is often classified as a property-related misdemeanor.
17. The defendant pleaded guilty to the misdemeanor charge.
18. His first offense was a misdemeanor, but he learned his lesson.
19. The misdemeanor case was swiftly resolved in court.
20. The officer issued a citation for the traffic misdemeanor.
21. Petty theft is considered a misdemeanor in many jurisdictions.
22. The misdemeanor conviction resulted in community service.
23. Misdemeanor charges can vary by state laws.
24. She was determined to clear her name of the misdemeanor.
25. He faced a misdemeanor charge for disorderly conduct.
26. The misdemeanor didn't tarnish her overall reputation.
27. Juvenile offenses are often classified as misdemeanors.
28. The attorney argued for a dismissal of the misdemeanor charges.