Definition

Describing a situation where the distribution of representatives is unfair or not suitable for a legislative body.

Example

The malapportioned districts led to unequal representation in the election.

Comparatives & Superlatives

Conversation

I read an article about how some districts are malapportioned in the election process.

Really? That sounds unfair to the voters.

Exactly! It just makes it harder for everyone to have their voices heard.

I hope they find a way to fix that soon.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Malapportioned → It is formed from "mala-" (from Latin *malus*, meaning bad or ill) and "apportioned" (from Old French *apportionner*, meaning to divide or allocate). The word describes something that is poorly or unfairly divided or allocated.

Memory Tip

Think of 'bad' ('mala-') allocation when you hear 'malapportioned' — it means something is divided in a bad or unfair way.

Visually Confused Words