Definition

A crime that is not as serious as a felony, often resulting in less severe punishment.

Example

He was charged with a misdemeanor for vandalizing public property.

Conversation

Did you hear about that guy who got charged with a misdemeanor?

Yeah, it was for something pretty minor, right?

Exactly! I think it was just a traffic violation or something like that.

Still, a misdemeanor can affect his record.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

**Misdemeanor** → It is formed from "mis-" (meaning wrongly) and "demeanor" (from Old French *demenour*, meaning behavior or conduct). The word refers to a wrongful act or behavior that is less serious than a felony.

Memory Tip

Think of 'mis-' meaning wrongly, and 'demeanor' referring to behavior — a misdemeanor is a wrongful behavior.

Visually Confused Words