misdemeanor Definition
a minor wrongdoing; a non-indictable offense.
Using misdemeanor: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "misdemeanor" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
He was charged with a misdemeanor for driving under the influence.
Example
Shoplifting is considered a misdemeanor in most states.
Example
The punishment for a misdemeanor is usually a fine or short imprisonment.
misdemeanor Synonyms and Antonyms
Synonyms for misdemeanor
Phrases with misdemeanor
gross misdemeanor
a serious misdemeanor that carries a higher penalty than a regular misdemeanor
Example
Assaulting a police officer is considered a gross misdemeanor.
a minor misdemeanor that carries a lower penalty than a regular misdemeanor
Example
Littering is considered a petty misdemeanor.
a type of misdemeanor that carries a higher penalty than a class B misdemeanor
Example
DUI is considered a class A misdemeanor in some states.
Origins of misdemeanor
from Middle English 'mesprisen', meaning 'to misdo'
Summary: misdemeanor in Brief
'Misdemeanor' [ˌmɪsdɪˈmiːnər] refers to a minor wrongdoing or non-indictable offense, such as driving under the influence or shoplifting. Punishments for misdemeanors are usually fines or short imprisonment. The term also includes phrases like 'gross misdemeanor,' which refers to a serious misdemeanor, and 'petty misdemeanor,' which refers to a minor misdemeanor.
