Meaning of the word malfunction in English

What does malfunction mean in English? Explore the meaning, pronunciation, and specific usage of this word with Lingoland.

malfunction

US /ˌmælˈfʌŋk.ʃən/

UK /ˌmælˈfʌŋk.ʃən/

a failure to function normally or satisfactorily

Example:

•

The printer had a serious malfunction, so we couldn't print the documents.

•

The sudden malfunction of the traffic lights caused a huge jam.

Synonym:

breakdown failure fault defect glitch

to fail to function normally or satisfactorily

Example:

•

The old engine started to malfunction during the long journey.

•

If the system continues to malfunction, we will need to replace it.

Synonym:

fail break down go wrong act up misbehave

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