malfunction

[mal-fuhngk-shuhn]

noun

1. failure to function properly.

   a malfunction of the liver; the malfunction of a rocket.

verb (used without object)

1. to fail to function properly.

malfunction

/ mælˈfʌŋkʃən /

verb

1. (intr) to function imperfectly or irregularly or fail to function

noun

1. failure to function or defective functioning

Word History and Origins

Origin of malfunction¹

First recorded in 1925–30; mal- + function

Example Sentences

Wales' line-out continued to malfunction as Canada were given an easy out and the half an hour that followed was a lesson in how to be clinical.

From BBC

That voyage, however, lasted only 25 minutes due to a plane malfunction, forcing the pilot to turn the aircraft around over the Santa Monica Bay and head back toward the airport.

From Los Angeles Times

Homes are invaded by masked and anonymous police, malfunctioning technology arrayed against citizens, information used as a weapon — 40 years ago, the movie “Brazil” painted a picture of America in 2025.

From Los Angeles Times

In recent months, Michaels said, firefighters have responded to numerous malfunctioning alarms and inverter fires at solar farms, he said.

From Los Angeles Times

She approached Mr Ali and attempted to shoot him from behind, but the gun malfunctioned, allowing him to get back into his car and flee.

From BBC

Related Words

• bug 
• defect 
• fault 
• flaw 
• glitch 
• impairment