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Defalcate Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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defalcate

[dɪˈfælkeɪt ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

financial misconduct

To defalcate means to misappropriate or embezzle funds entrusted to one's care, especially in a financial or official capacity. It often involves taking money or property that one is not entitled to, typically in violation of a fiduciary duty.

Synonyms

divert, embezzle, misappropriate, misuse.

Examples of usage

  • The accountant was found guilty of defalcating company funds.
  • She was charged with defalcation after the audit revealed discrepancies.
  • The defalcation of funds led to a major financial scandal.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Legal Context

  • Defalcation is often associated with fiduciary duties, where someone mismanages funds for which they are responsible.
  • It can lead to criminal charges, especially in cases involving significant sums of money.
  • The term can apply to both civil and criminal law depending on the severity of the infraction.

Historical Usage

  • The word started appearing in English legal texts in the early 19th century.
  • Notable cases of defalcation have changed banking regulations and financial oversight policies.
  • The Great Depression saw an increase in cases where trust funds were defalcated, leading to calls for stricter regulation.

Cultural Perspectives

  • In literature, defalcation is often depicted as a moral failing, showcasing themes of greed and betrayal.
  • Movies and TV shows often illustrate defalcation through characters who manipulate finances for personal gain, emphasizing the impact of greed.
  • Public figures involved in scandalous financial behavior have shaped the perception of trust and responsibility in financial matters.

Financial Awareness

  • Understanding defalcation is key in corporate governance, emphasizing the need for transparency and accountability.
  • Creating stringent audit processes can help deter acts of defalcation in businesses.
  • Education on fiduciary responsibilities is crucial in preventing financial misconduct.

Origin of 'defalcate'

Main points about word origin

  • The term comes from the Latin word 'defalcare,' meaning to deduct or take away.
  • It combines 'de-' (from) and 'falcare' (to cut), referring to cutting away funds.
  • Originally used in legal contexts, it has evolved to describe financial misconduct.

The term 'defalcate' originates from the Latin word 'defalcatus', which is the past participle of 'defalcare', meaning 'to cut off'. The word 'defalcare' itself comes from the prefix 'de-' meaning 'from, down from' and 'falcis', meaning 'sickle' or 'scythe', representing the idea of cutting away or removing. In the 17th century, 'defalcate' began to be used in English legal and financial contexts, describing the act of withholding or misappropriating funds in a position of trust. Over time, the usage of the term expanded to encompass various forms of financial misconduct, particularly in relation to fiduciary obligations. It has since been commonly employed in legal and financial discussions, emphasizing the severity of financial dishonesty.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #43,064, this word is among the least frequently used in common English. Understanding it can be beneficial for comprehensive language mastery, but it's not essential for most learners.