Definition

A person who does bad things or commits crimes.

Example

The police arrested the malefactor after a long investigation.

Conversation

Did you hear about that malefactor who was caught downtown last night?

Yeah, I saw it on the news — it sounded pretty wild.

I can't believe someone would actually do that in our neighborhood.

It's surprising, but there are always a few malefactors around.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Malefactor → It is formed from "male" (from Latin *malus*, meaning bad or evil) and "facere" (meaning to do or make). The word "malefactor" refers to someone who does evil or commits a crime.

Memory Tip

Think of someone who does something 'bad' ('male') — that's why a malefactor is a person who commits evil acts.

Visually Confused Words