malfunction
Malfunction (noun) means a failure to work correctly, usually referring to equipment or a system. Example: “The plane was grounded due to a mechanical malfunction.”
How to use malfunction
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishUsed for machines, devices, or systems that stop working properly.
Word forms
malfunctioned past tense, malfunctions plural, malfunctions singular
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The plane was grounded due to a mechanical _____.
Etymology
From mal- ("bad, incorrect") plus "function."
Synonyms
View more →Related words
Rhymes for malfunction
Frequently asked questions
What does “malfunction” mean?
The word “malfunction” means a failure to work correctly, usually referring to equipment or a system. In plain terms, used for machines, devices, or systems that stop working properly.
How do you pronounce “malfunction”?
“Malfunction” is pronounced mal-FUHNGK-shuhn (/ˌmælˈfʌŋk.ʃən/ in IPA).
How do you use “malfunction” in a sentence?
Here is “malfunction” used in a sentence: “The plane was grounded due to a mechanical malfunction.”
What part of speech is “malfunction”?
Depending on how it is used, “malfunction” can be a noun and a verb.
Is “malfunction” a common word?
“Malfunction” is an uncommon word in modern English, usually learned at around the C1 level.
How many meanings does “malfunction” have?
“Malfunction” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a failure to work correctly, usually referring to equipment or a system.