malfunction

noun
UK: /ˌmælˈfʌŋk.ʃən/
US: /ˌmælˈfʌŋk.ʃən/

  1. When something, like a machine, stops working correctly.

    1. The toy car had a malfunction.
    2. The washing machine experienced a sudden malfunction, flooding the laundry room.

  2. A problem or fault that prevents something from working correctly.

    1. A computer malfunction caused the error.
    2. A software malfunction is responsible for the unexpected system crashes.

Synonyms

defect fault failure breakdown error
malfunction intransitive-verb

  1. To fail to function or work properly.

    1. The device will malfunction soon.
    2. If the sensor malfunctions, the alarm system will not activate.

  2. To not operate normally or correctly.

    1. The equipment may malfunction at any moment.
    2. Due to a software glitch, the navigation system began to malfunction.
malfunction transitive-verb

  1. To cause something to stop working correctly.

    1. Don't malfunction the robot, please.
    2. Improper maintenance can malfunction sensitive electronic components.

Frequently Asked Questions

The word "malfunction" in English means: When something, like a machine, stops working correctly., A problem or fault that prevents something from working correctly..

The phonetic transcription of "malfunction" is /ˌmælˈfʌŋk.ʃən/ in British English and /ˌmælˈfʌŋk.ʃən/ in American English. Click the 🔊 button to hear both pronunciations.

Synonyms for "malfunction": defect, fault, failure, breakdown, error.

Example usage of "malfunction": "The toy car had a malfunction.". More examples on the page.