misdemean

/ˈmɪsdɪˌmeɪn, -ˌmeɪn/

Definitions

1. noun

a minor crime or offense, typically punishable by fine or imprisonment for a short term

“The defendant pleaded guilty to a misdemeanor charge of disorderly conduct.”

2. verb

to regard or treat as a minor crime or offense

“The judge decided to misdemean the case, reducing the charges to a lesser offense.”

Synonyms

  • minor offense
  • petty crime
  • violation

Antonyms

  • felony
  • serious offense