Defalcate

Part of Speech

Verb

Pronunciation

/dɪˈfæl.keɪt/

Definitions

• 1. To embezzle or steal money or property entrusted to one's care.
• 2. To misappropriate funds, especially by a public official or someone in a fiduciary role.

Usage Examples

• "The accountant was caught attempting to defalcate the company funds."
• "The politician's career was ruined after accusations that he had defalcated public money."

Etymology

From Latin "defalcatus," the past participle of "defalcāre," meaning "to cut off or deduct." The term evolved to refer to the illegal act of taking or misappropriating funds or property.

Synonyms

• Embezzle
• Misappropriate
• Steal
• Swindle
• Loot

Antonyms

• Return
• Restore
• Refund
• Repay
• Reimburse

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

In British English, "defalcate" may be pronounced with a slightly more stressed "a," while American English speakers might pronounce it with a softer emphasis.

Historical Usage

The word "defalcate" dates back to the early 17th century and was primarily used in legal and financial contexts. It became more widely known in the 19th century as cases of financial mismanagement and embezzlement became more common in the public sphere.

Cultural Nuances

Defalcation has historically been viewed as a severe crime, particularly among public officials, as it undermines public trust. In many cultures, the act of defalcating is seen as a grave moral failure, with social stigma attached to individuals found guilty of such actions.

More Information

Defalcation, while often associated with theft or fraud, specifically refers to the misappropriation of funds entrusted to someone in a fiduciary role. This term is commonly used in legal and financial settings, particularly when a person is charged with taking money from an organization or public office without permission. The act of defalcation can carry severe legal penalties and is considered a breach of trust and ethical conduct.