misdemeanor

Definitions

A minor wrongdoing or offense.

A criminal offense that is less serious than a felony and typically punishable by a fine or short jail term.

Examples

He was charged with a misdemeanor after being caught shoplifting at the local store.

The judge decided to reduce the felony charge to a misdemeanor due to the defendant's lack of a prior criminal record.

Synonyms

infraction offense transgression misdeed violation misconduct lapse

Antonyms

virtue obedience goodness rectitude righteousness compliance observance